Police Social Work Program
The Portsmouth Police Department is committed to supporting the safety, health, and well-being of our community through innovative and compassionate approaches to public service. One of the ways we are doing this is through our Police Social Work Program.
What Does Our Police Social Worker Do?
Our Police Social Worker (PSW) works alongside officers and community partners to connect individuals and families with the resources they need during challenging times. While police officers are often the first to respond to a wide range of calls, many situations involve underlying social, mental health, or economic needs that benefit from specialized support.
Currently, our PSW provides follow-up case management services and operates primarily in a reactive role, meaning they respond to situations as they arise. This work includes:
- Assisting individuals experiencing mental health crises
- Connecting people to a variety of resources including but not limited to housing, food, and financial assistance programs
- Supporting individuals struggling with substance use
- Following up with community members after police interactions
- Collaborating with local service providers and healthcare organizations
- Helping reduce repeat calls for service by addressing root causes
By working closely with officers and community partners, the PSW helps ensure that individuals receive the right help by guiding them through the process.
Why This Role Matters
Not every call for service is best solved through the support of enforcement alone. By integrating social work into policing, we can:
- Provide more appropriate, long-term solutions
- Reduce strain on emergency services
- Improve outcomes for vulnerable individuals
- Strengthen trust between the police department and the community
This approach is directly in line with the Portsmouth Police Department's mission statement to partner with our community and compassionately help all people.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Impact
Over the next year, the Portsmouth Police Department will expand this program by adding a second Police Social Worker to focus on outreach services.
Unlike the current PSW role that focuses on follow-up case management after a call for service, this new position will focus on a proactive approach, with a particular emphasis on supporting individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
This position is made possible through funding from the Opioid Abatement Grant, allowing the Portsmouth Police Department to invest directly in prevention and early intervention efforts.
What Will the Second PSW Do?
The second PSW will:
- Conduct outreach to individuals affected by substance use
- Build relationships with community members before crises occur
- Connect individuals to treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services
- Work closely with local partners to address substance use trends
- Support long-term recovery and stability
This proactive model aims to reduce overdoses, improve recovery outcomes, and enhance overall community health.
A Commitment to Compassionate Policing
The addition of social work professionals in the Portsmouth Police Department reflects our belief that public safety includes care, connection, and prevention.
By combining law enforcement with social services, the Portsmouth Police Department is working to build a safer, healthier, and more resilient community for everyone.