Breakout #1: Decreasing Call Volume and MORE: Internal Benefits of Embedded Police Social Workers

LaSaundra McCoy, MSW Police Social Worker

Mallory Phagan, MSW, LSW Police Social Worker

Melissa Stone, MSW, LSW Senior Police Social Worker

Bloomington (IN) Police Department began its Police Social Worker (PSW) program in March of 2019, expanding from one to three professional PSWs. There is growing evidence that shows the benefits of having social workers embedded into police departments to help with reducing call volume, crisis response, etc. This presentation will discuss the additional benefits of having embedded PSWs, including working alongside Crisis Hostage Negotiations Teams, Department and Family Wellness, training, etc. Presenters will discuss case studies and programming that has been successful and will address strengths and challenges with developing internal programming.