GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Kent County Sheriff’s Office will have a social worker assisting with mental health calls through a new partnership.
The sheriff’s office announced the program Wednesday, calling it “a significant step toward addressing the growing need for mental health services in emergencies.”
A clinician with Network180 will work in the county’s emergency communications center to support people who are experiencing mental health crises.
“This partnership is an important piece in Network180’s efforts to meet people where they are with the help they need, when they need it,” said Network180 Executive Director Bill Ward in a statement. “Thanks to the hard work and creativity from members of both KCSO and Network180, we will be able to extend clinical assistance to deputies in the field to meet the behavioral health needs of residents throughout Kent County.”
According to the sheriff’s office, the program will help connect people in crises with resources. It’s also expected to reduce law enforcement and medical responses, allowing these teams to respond to other situations.