Pioneering new mental health centre named after local man who died after being detained by police in 1999
The family of the late Roger Sylvester have attended a special opening ceremony at the new mental health centre in Haringey that has been named in his memory.
The family of Roger Sylvester and other dignitaries attend the opening of the Roger Sylvester Centre, photo courtesy of Haringey Council
Mr Sylvester was a mental health worker at the Lambo Centre in Archway, and also accessed services at the former Canning Crescent Health centre as he suffered from bipolar disorder
In 1999, the 30 year-old experienced a mental health episode and was detained by eight police officers outside his home in Tottenham, under provisions in the Mental Health Act 1983. He was taken to St Ann’s Hospital in Haringey, but after being restrained on the floor there he fell into a coma and subsequently died.
The case made headlines. In 2003, a jury returned a verdict of unlawful killing against the police officers involved, but this was overturned by the High Court in 2004. Even so, the case raised serious questions about the way those experiencing poor mental health are dealt with by the state, and the kinds of facilities provided to support them.
That’s why the new mental health centre in Haringey is so significant. Haringey Council says it will act as a hub for integrated mental health support, bringing together in one place vital services provided by the council, NHS and voluntary sector.
Facilities include a safe haven ‘crisis cafe’, operated by the charity Mind, where anyone can drop in to access support and guidance when in a mental health crisis. In addition, a crisis prevention house run by North London NHS Foundation Trust offers short stays for adults, with therapeutic and person-centred support to aid recovery and ease pressure on NHS services.
The education centre Clarendon Recovery College, run by the council, which provides courses and learning opportunities to support people recovering from mental health crises, is also now based at the Roger Sylvester Centre.
Earlier this month, members of Mr Sylvester’s family joined Cllr Peray Ahmet, Leader of Haringey Council, and officials from partner organisations to officially name the new facility.
Cllr Lucia das Neves, Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Well-being at Haringey Council, attended the ceremony and says: ‘We are beyond proud that Roger Sylvester will be remembered and honoured through this important facility.
‘His death had a profound impact on the community and highlighted the need for compassionate, person-centred mental health care. Naming the centre in his honour is a way of recognising Roger’s aspirations, acknowledging the pain felt by his loved ones, and reaffirming our commitment to building a more just and supportive future.
‘We know how much person-centred mental health support can change lives here in Haringey. We are delighted that Roger’s family are with us on this journey to support better mental health in the borough.’
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