WPD has sought grants and funding every year since 2016 to add embedded social workers into WPD to help with mental health-related calls. This opportunity became a reality in collaboration with the Department for Children and Families.
Two Community Support Specialists (CSS) are embedded within the police department and assist WPD in connecting families with public health programs for parent skill building, mental health or substance abuse services, and similar safety network supports.
The goal of the two non-commissioned staff employees is to assist law enforcement in responding to incidents involving children at risk because of abuse, neglect, or are otherwise in need of early intervention for a safe and supportive environment.
The CSS will improve communication between social services and law enforcement in Wichita and allow for quicker response to resources and assistance in certain cases.
If you have questions for WPD CSS or have resources to provide them, please contact them below.