Deflection programs focus on early intervention, steering individuals away from the legal system and providing support for those open to exploring treatment options.

Eau Claire County's program is 100% voluntary, and assists people with system navigation towards their goals of recovery.

We provide:

1. Peer Support Services:

   Connecting eligible individuals with contracted Peer Support services if they are interested and eligible.

2. Person-Centered Goal Planning:

   Tailoring support based on individual needs and preferences.

3. Meeting People Where They Are:

   Recognizing and respecting each person's unique recovery journey.

4. Improved Outcomes:

   Conducting assessments and making referrals for services to enhance participant outcomes.

5. Guidance through Support Systems:

   Navigating short and long-term support systems to meet individual needs.

Criteria for Service:

Referred individuals must:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Meet residency requirements.

• Be willing to complete assessments and engage in case management support.

• Meet criteria for ongoing case management after assessment.

How to Make a Referral:

Referrals are primarily made through police contact.
During service calls, officers or first responders may utilize deflection instead of making arrests, offering individuals a direct link to support after contact with law enforcement.  

If you have an encounter with police that does not result in an arrest, then a referral may have been made for you. 

Please follow up with the contact information on this page if you have questions.

How Deflection Works

Deflection is a proactive approach to addressing challenges in our community.
Eau Claire County utilizes multiple deflection pathways to deflect people from entering the legal system, and later to divert people that are already legal system involved.

For those that are interested and eligible for services, they will engage in assessments, set goals, and be connected to case management and peer support services that will support them in their individualized recovery goals for approximately 6 months. Participants may have an option to be connected to services that will support them beyond that time.

First Responder and Officer Referral

During the vast majority of calls for service, officers do not make an arrest but want to do something to prevent people from entering the system. Deflection provides an additional option to connect individuals to services and support. Deflection provides an alternative and a direct link to support after the officer contact. 

Peer Support Services

Professional peer support is a structured form of assistance provided by trained individuals with lived experiences in specific areas such as mental health, addiction recovery, or legal system involvement. Wisconsin Certified Peer Specialists have undergone specialized training and certification to provide trauma-informed, person-centered support to others.

There are a number of benefits to increasing access to peer support in our community. Individuals receiving peer support often feel more understood and accepted, which can enhance their engagement with formal treatment services and improve long-term outcomes for the person. Moreover, peer support reduces the sense of isolation and stigma commonly associated with mental health, addiction, or legal system involvement. Fostering a sense of community and connection empowers individuals to explore pathways to recovery, make informed decisions about their future, and advocate for themselves without shaming, blaming, or dictating another person's choices.

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