Creating a crisis response center involves strategic planning, expert input, and strong community engagement. Just like fire stations and police departments, these centers are vital for safely and effectively helping individuals in distress. Here’s how to ensure your crisis response center is designed for success: 

Crisis response centers are complex and need specific design features, such as ligature-safe environments and efficient center flow. Experienced crisis providers are essential in designing these facilities. Their expertise ensures the center meets safety standards and effectively addresses the needs of individuals in crisis. 

Start by selecting a suitable center or site for your center. Key factors include the center’s size and its ability to support necessary design features. If a site hasn’t been chosen yet, outline the criteria for selecting one or ask potential providers to suggest locations. Also, plan for a “ramp up” period to transition from construction to full operation. 

Consider if you want to include existing or new county services within the crisis response center. Define what you expect from the provider, such as community engagement and workforce planning. This helps streamline the implementation process. 

Clearly outline the roles of both the county and the provider during the implementation phase. A provider with a strong role in design and construction can help meet clinical best practices and speed up the project. Identify any necessary county board or regulatory approvals to avoid delays and explore ways to streamline the project timeline where possible. 

By focusing on these areas, you’ll create a crisis response center that is well-designed, effective, and beneficial to your community. Engaging with experienced providers and planning carefully will help ensure the center delivers high-quality care efficiently. 

SOURCE: Building a safe place to go solicitation insights-Connections Health Solutions