Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) Program

Reschedule notice: The meeting for Wednesday, May 24 has been rescheduled to Wednesday, May 31

The Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) Program deploys Emergency Response Teams that include Emergency Medical Technicians and Behavioral Health Clinicians to engage individuals experiencing distress related to mental health issues, poverty, homelessness, and substance misuse. STAR responds to low-risk calls where individuals are not in imminent risk. STAR is dispatched through Denver 9-1-1 Communications. The team can provide medical assessment/triage, crisis intervention, de escalation, transportation and resource connection for community members in need.

STAR is dispatched through Denver 911. To request support from the STAR team in Denver, please call 9-1-1 or 720-913-STAR (7827). An operator will dispatch the most appropriate available response.

Frequently Asked Questions

To what types of calls does STAR respond?

STAR responds to low risk calls where individuals are not in imminent risk. STAR deals with low level behavioral health crises and issues that arise from public health needs and poverty. Some examples are, trespass calls, welfare checks, intoxicated parties and mental health distress.

 

How is STAR dispatched?

STAR is dispatched through Denver 9-1-1 Communications. All of the civilian call takers and dispatchers at the communications center are trained to triage STAR calls and send the most appropriate available response. The calls are screened for safety and appropriateness.

Where does STAR respond?

STAR is in the process of expanding city wide. As staff are hired, they will respond throughout the city seven days per week between the hours of 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Why isn’t STAR available 24-hours a day?

Data shows that our highest call volume occurs between 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Once we have implemented resources during this time, we will continue to review the data to determine where additional resources are needed.