The Trinity Suite, which opened on Wednesday, was set up after a change in the law meant people suffering from serious mental health problems no longer had to be assessed in a police cell.

The alternative place of safety means that people sectioned under the Mental Health Act can be assessed by a doctor in a more reassuring environment.

The suite at Fieldhead will be used by people from Wakefield, Calderdale or Kirklees.

Hazel O'Hara, chief operating Officer at South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust, said: "The opening of this new facility marks a very positive step for mental health provision in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. The new facility has been purposely redeveloped on the Fieldhead site in Wakefield and provides a safe and secure environment for assessment."

Assistant chief constable Jawaid Akhtar, of West Yorkshire Police, said: "A police cell is not the most suitable place for a person who may have serious mental health issues. I am delighted that our front line officers will be able to take people to these new facilities."