Meet Everett’s Embedded Social Workers

The Everett Public Library has arranged an event to let the public meet the two social workers who are embedded within the Everett Police Department. Here are the details from Kate Larsen at the library.

In response to the priority recommendations from Everett’s Community Streets Initiative, the Everett Police Department announced in August 2015 that two Embedded Social Workers would be hired to work alongside officers on the Community Outreach and Enforcement Team. The community now has a unique opportunity to hear from members of that team.

On Tuesday, January 10th at 6:30 p.m., EPD’s two social workers along with EPD Sergeant Mike Braley will be at the Everett Public Library Main Library Auditorium, providing an overview of their day-to-day work, and the successes and challenges they’ve faced in the first 18 months of the program. A Q&A session follows their talk.

According to a statement on City of Everett’s website, the Embedded Social Workers “help individuals on the street navigate the often-complicated treatment and housing systems and connect them with the resources they need. The social workers cultivate contacts and establish positive relationships among various law enforcement agencies, treatment providers, service organizations, faith-based groups and local governments.”

Embedded Social Worker programs are being created in police departments across the country in an effort to address increasing demands on police to intervene in calls involving mental health issues. According to some estimates, 10-50% of 911 calls are related in some way to mental health issues.

This event is free and open to the public. Please note: as this is an informational session, attendees will not have an opportunity to sign up for social services at this event.