A key component of the Protocol is the Emergency Response Program (ERP). Responding officers initiate the ERP by contacting the on-duty counselor at a partner agency to provide immediate support to victims of domestic violence. Counselors from the partner agency must respond promptly by calling the phone number provided by the officer. Additionally, counselors conduct follow-up with victims referred through the Protocol, making at least four attempts to reach them by phone if direct contact isn’t possible at the time of the referral. Under the contract, the service provider must deliver the following services: - A 24-hour crisis hotline. - Emergency shelter. - Counseling for victims and their children. - Legal assistance to obtain restraining orders. - Teen outreach and community education programs.
