Community: City of Birmingham
Population: Over 12,001
The Co-Response (CORE) Crisis Outreach Program is a partnership between law enforcement and mental health professionals to better serve people in mental health crisis in Birmingham and surrounding communities. In September of 2021, the Auburn Hills, Birmingham, and Bloomfield Township Police Departments partnered together with the Oakland Community Health Network to contract a full-time clinician to work within the police departments. The mental health clinician co-responds to crisis calls for service with police officers, conducts follow-up with community members and families, and provides additional resources. Crisis calls for service are dynamic in nature and can be scary for those suffering a mental health crisis. The clinician has the expertise to assist in de-escalation at the scenes and meet people where they are in times of need. She provides additional support, resources, and advice to not only people in crisis, but to law enforcement officers responding to these types of calls.
Replicability:
Yes. This project would be easy to replicate in other communities. It is ideal for smaller communities that do not have the demand for a full time mental health clinician. Several smaller communities located near each other can split the cost of the position, and the clinician can quickly assist each community as needed. This is cost effective and creates efficient aid for officers responding to a mental health crisis situation.
Creativity and Originality:
There are police departments with a full-time social worker on staff, but what makes our program unique is the agreement between the Oakland County Health Network and the three municipalities. The mental health clinician is employed by the Oakland County Health Network, so she is knowledgeable and directly connected to all mental health resources available within the county. This position bridges the gap between local law enforcement and these essential county resources.
Community Impact:
This project has a positive public health impact in Birmingham and surrounding communities. The need for professionals with the training and background to assist those experiencing a mental health crisis is more important now than ever. Having a clinician who can assist law enforcement by deescalating a situation increases the wellbeing and safety of the person in crisis, officers at the scene, and the entire community.
