SPECIAL HOUSING UNIT FOR MENTAL HEALTH INMATES
Sheriff Reginald B. Scandrett envisioned a dedicated housing unit for mental health inmates within the jail. This led to the establishment of a specialized unit designed to ensure the safety and comprehensive care of acute mental health inmates. Operationalized in April 2023, the unit signifies a significant advancement in discharge planning and access to community-based services for mental health inmates.
At the forefront of its mission, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has prioritized mental health as a cornerstone of its institutional framework. Recognizing the critical need for comprehensive mental health care within correctional facilities, HCSO has embarked on a transformative journey to establish and prioritize mental health initiatives. Through systematic evaluation and adherence to established standards, HCSO strives to ensure equitable access to mental health services for all inmates under its care. Central to this endeavor is Dr. William Brickhouse , our in-house expert in correctional mental health care, whose expertise has been instrumental in shaping the HCSO's innovative approach to inmate well-being. MENTAL HEALTH The HCSO's Commitment to Transformative Care for Inmates A FOCUS ON
COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Beyond its internal initiatives, HCSO actively engaged in collaborative partnerships and community outreach efforts to enhance mental health support. Through initiatives like the Stepping Up Initiative and engagement with judicial and legislative leadership, HCSO seeks to streamline diversion and pre-release programs for mental health inmates, fostering a holistic approach to care.
CONTINUOUS TRAINING AND EDUCATION
Recognizing the importance of ongoing education, HCSO prioritizes training and development for its personnel. Suicide prevention training materials are integrated into new hire orientations, while participation in conferences and workshops underscores the HCSO's commitment to fostering a culture of mental health awareness and support.
ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM
LOOKING AHEAD: A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
Under Dr. Brickhouse's guidance, HCSO has prioritized the establishment of comprehensive mental health programs aimed at addressing the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals. One significant milestone is the implementation of a Process Study to monitor the tracking system for inmates scheduled for evaluation. This proactive measure ensures compliance with National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) Standards for Access to Care, reinforcing the HCSO's commitment to equitable mental health service delivery.
As HCSO continues its mission to prioritize mental health care, it remains committed to advancing innovative solutions and fostering a culture of compassion and support within its facilities. Through the collective efforts of dedicated professionals like Dr. Brickhouse and staff, HCSO is paving the way for transformative change in correctional mental health care.
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