Oklahoma Department of Corrections

PROJECT PURPOSE

The ODOC would like to implement a wellness program for staff. This program would provide an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that includes peer support, crisis intervention, and sociological training opportunities. This program would benefit staff by providing them support from individuals in similar fields with similar experiences. If staff require additional support above the level of peer support, this program provides a network of counselors that have a background in law enforcement. Counselors lacking law enforcement background are not qualified to properly assist our staff and often times deny services due to their inability to connect with the individual; this program would ensure staff is connected to counselors qualified to provide assistance. The crisis intervention will allow us to initiate a team to respond to facilities across the state anytime an incident occurs to provide staff immediate support and follow-up support. The training opportunities will include cultural differences, trauma response, conflict resolution, de-escalation tactics, and much more. The program will have a website and app to allow staff to access support and training 24/7. This program will provide our staff with the tools to fulfill our agency mission to protect the community, the employee, and those in our custody. (ODOC Tracking #202111-003 - submitted by Tasha Parker, Executive Assistant to the Director)

EVIDENCE

A wellness program is endorsed by the American Correctional Association. Please see the attached document for additional information, ACA Staff Wellness Monograph Announcement.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

ODOC staff, correctional officers, and medical staff work tirelessly to protect the community and serve the public. These staff members are essential workers that work in a high-risk communicable environment. Facilities are predominantly located in rural communities with little to no access to mental health programs. Providing a wellness program that is accessible 24/7 will provide staff in these locations with access to much-needed support. This could not come at a better time, as many individuals have suffered mental health crises due to the effects of the pandemic.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

If funding is secured a high-level plan will be created for the implementation phase with associated mile markers and goals. One year after the implementation of the program staff surveys will be sent out requesting input on the program's success and any recommendations. Our Quality Assurance Unit will perform spot reviews to ensure the program is meeting its intent.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma