Police officer comes to rescue of woman considering taking own life

A police officer who helped a woman considering taking her own life has urged others to reach out for help if they’re struggling.

PC Michelle Worden, who is based in South-east London, was driving to work on Thursday, July 9 when she noticed a woman pacing up and down and looking in distress on the roadside.

PC Worden pulled over and spoke with the woman and they went for a walk.

The policewoman, who has been an officer for nine years, gently talked to the woman and reunited her with her family, before an ambulance was called. The woman is now receiving appropriate support and care.

PC Worden said: “As I drove past I realised something wasn’t quite right and I couldn’t carry on driving knowing that. She was pacing up and down and looked distressed.

“I think policing instinct helps you spot a problem and you know, in a split second, that you have to act quickly.

“I think it was meant to be that I was driving past at the same time that she was in distress, and I’m so relieved that I was there to help her and reunite her with her family.

“I spoke with her loved one and she sounds like an amazing woman, and I’m just so pleased to have been there to help in whatever way I can.

“If anyone out there is struggling or you know someone who is, please know that there is help out there, and there are lots of people who want to support them.”

BCU Commander Rob Atkin, of the South East Command Unit, said: “This goes to show that an officer is never off duty, and I’m so proud of Michelle for stepping in and going the extra mile to help someone.”

If you, or someone you know, is struggling the Samaritans is open every day, 24/7, and can be contacted on 116 123 or here