Advocates, Inc launches the first co-response jail diversion program in the state with funding from the MetroWest Health Foundation.
People in crisis or struggling with a behavioral health issue may come in contact with the police, who historically are not trained in dealing with mental illness. But arresting or incarcerating someone in need of assistance does not address the health issue at hand and in some cases may escalate their response. In 2003 Advocates launches a program with the Framingham Police Department in which masters-level clinicians join police on emergency and service calls. The clinicians can use their training to de-escalate situations and help direct people to appropriate resources. Advocates reports that "on average, 75% of individuals presenting with criminal behavior are diverted from arrest and into appropriate treatment... co-response programs divert individuals with a behavioral health condition 74%-88% of the time." The program improves outcomes for those struggling with behavioral health conditions.
Since 2003, this model has been expanded to 15 other communities in Massachusetts. The Diversion team has presented at national conferences and assisted police forces across the world in implementing similar programs.
