Responder Assistance Initiative

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety identified a strategy that prioritizes first responder wellbeing by leading a comprehensive initiative that aims to unify responder support systems. NCDPS, through the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management, is leveraging the value of the Responder Assistance Initiative (RAI) to reach responder groups through coordinated protocols and best practices that integrate peer team providers, embedded behavioral health clinicians, mental health treatment services and professional resources at the highest level.

This initiative began in 2019 with a two-year, $4.3 million federal Department of Justice grant managed by the Governor’s Crime Commission, with 80% federal and 20% state funds providing the initial funding for the development and implementation of Integrated Behavioral Health Services (IBHS) a program designed to provide a mechanism for the integration of and access to medical and non-medical behavioral health support systems that serve DPS staff members and their families. Specifically, the program focused on serving those who work in high stress work environments and who are regularly exposed to threats and violence in the workplace. Twenty full-time employees mobilized to build the program and meet the need, accomplishing a five-year plan in two short years. In 2021, the program was written into the state budget and subsequently signed by the governor to authorize appropriated funding for the program.

In the same year, the 2021 Appropriations Act created the Department of Adult Corrections, removing the Division of Adult Corrections from DPS effective January 1, 2023. In the advent of this separation, a framework for the future of IBHS began to unfold and the program was rebranded as the Responder Assistance Initiative and is now housed in the Division of Emergency Management.

For consultations, peer support, or mental health and wellness appointments, please call:

RAI’s Information and Resource Line 866-731-6901

This confidential, toll-free line provides access to peer support, wellness resources, and clinical support. The line is staffed Monday through Friday from 7:00AM to 7:00PM by RAI providers.  You will be asked to leave a brief message with your name and number. This is not a crisis line.  If you, or the person you are calling about is in imminent danger or has a suicidal or homicidal situation, call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room.

If you would like to reach out directly to anyone our team, please feel free to do so.  Emails and calls will be responded to during regular business hours.