In a significant move aimed at bolstering community support for mental health challenges, the Charleston Police Department has been granted an extension for its Mental Health and Wellness Act Grant. The approval came during the latest Charleston Public Safety Committee meeting, where officials greenlit the continuation of this vital initiative.
Under this program, the police department collaborates closely with the Department of Mental Health, assigning officers alongside clinicians to respond to mental health-related calls. This partnership facilitates direct support for individuals experiencing crises linked to mental health issues.
Officer Aaliyah Blanding, part of the Co-Responder Team, elucidated the dynamics between officers and clinicians in such scenarios. She emphasized the clinician’s role in providing resources, including information on substance abuse, which may exacerbate mental health challenges. Additionally, Blanding noted the flexibility for uniformed officers to take the lead in de-escalating situations should a behavioral health subject be unreceptive to the clinician’s involvement.
Sergeant Chris Stinson highlighted the imperative for extending the grant, stressing the complexities of reaching individuals in mental health crises. Stinson underscored the challenges faced by both individuals and their families, often grappling with stigma and a lack of awareness about available resources. The extension, Stinson emphasized, is crucial in enhancing the department’s capacity to address such crises effectively.
The requested extension, amounting to $200,000 for the fiscal year 2024, will fuel various program enhancements. These include expanded critical incident training, an overdose initiative, and forging partnerships for housing solutions. Notably, the Critical Incident training, comprising 40 hours of mental health and active listening skills, aims to equip officers with essential tools for handling sensitive situations.
Moreover, the grant amplifies support for the CPD peer support team, responsible for providing confidential assistance to officers and their families following traumatic incidents. With plans to add 16 new members, in addition to extensive suicide awareness training, the program seeks to fortify the department’s internal support structure comprehensively.
City council member Kevin Shealy, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, expressed enthusiasm for the department’s continued dedication to community welfare. Acknowledging the demanding nature of policing, Shealy commended the commitment of Charleston’s law enforcement personnel in navigating challenging circumstances.
Crucially, the grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, imposes no financial burden on the city. With the extension stretching until the end of 2025, the Charleston Police Department is poised to maximize the grant’s benefits, further solidifying its role as a proactive community partner in mental health support.
