JOB
The Deflection Specialist is a non-sworn, full-time administrative position.
Works collaboratively with law enforcement and other community stakeholders to promote recovery from drug use, reduce drug overdoses, and interrupt the cycle of drugs and crime by deflecting individuals experiencing substance use and/or mental health disorders away from arrest and incarceration and into community-based support systems.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Responsible for connecting with individuals to provide outreach, education, and training on targeted subject matter; including substance abuse disorders, mental health disorders, and community resources.
Assists sworn officers in crisis intervention as it relates to the methods used to offer short-term, immediate help to individuals who have experienced an event that produces mental, physical, emotional, and behavioral distress, through follow-up and referral to appropriate agencies.
Provides referral services to the police department and general public.
Follows up on referrals from police officers, local schools, hospitals, and the general public.
Refers and facilitates individuals to appropriate community services.
Provides screenings and professional advice to individuals and officers in the field.
Provides case management on all referrals for social service assistance.
Serves as a consultant to police officers regarding the management of cases or individuals.
Facilitates social service-related training as necessary for the police departmentWorks with other social service providers to coordinate care, including local schools, hospitals, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and area mental health facilities.
May be called upon to provide emergency assistance after normal working hours to officers in the field, as needed.
Receives calls for assistance and responds accordingly.
Arrange and/or attend citizen meetings to address local issues.
Conducts public education programs or events for citizens.
Maintains records and confidential case files.
Performs other duties as required or assigned.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must maintain the physical ability to successfully pass the Essential Job Function test for the position.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of federal and state law and acts applicable to social services.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Effectively manage and use discretion in crisis situations.
Ability to maintain highly confidential information.
Ability to work with a diverse population of individuals.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with police department personnel, as well as other social service agencies and professionals within and outside the community.
Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license, and be able to operate a motor vehicle.
Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule and to respond, in person, outside of normal work days/hours within a reasonable time period.
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