Preventing Incarceration: Proactive Support Strategies for Providers

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) face unique challenges when interacting with the criminal justice system. Unfortunately, research shows that individuals accepting supports often experience poorer outcomes than those without disabilities.

But what if there was a way to prevent these crises from happening in the first place? By taking a proactive approach to services, focusing on communication, coping, and safety skills, we may be able to reduce the need for law enforcement intervention and entry into the criminal justice system.

Texas has taken a significant step towards supporting people with I/DD who are at risk of institutionalization or re-institutionalization. The state has established eight Transition Support Teams, providing free evidence-based educational opportunities, technical assistance services, and case consultation services to entities that serve such individuals. These teams are established through a federal Money Follows the Person grant.

The Transition Support Team at the Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, caters to 17 counties in the southernmost part of Texas, just north of the Mexican border. With this initiative, they aim to provide better services to people with I/DD and help them lead a better life.

Join this dynamic webinar to learn how your community can work towards a system that prioritizes prevention and crisis management skills for individuals with I/DD. Together, we can create a safer and more just society for all.

An on-demand recording of the webinar will be emailed to all registrants.

Presenters

• Susan LaGrone, Transition Support Team Coordinator, Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities
• Mark Morris, Transition Support Team Supervisor, Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities