'Guardian Project' offers way to serve vulnerable population

On Feb. 4, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office announced the launch of a new voluntary registry designed to better support and protect vulnerable populations within the community. 

This Vulnerable Population Registry, known as the “Guardian Project,” will let individuals with specific needs, such as those living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, developmental disabilities or mental health challenges, to register personal information that can be accessed by first responders in emergency situations.

The Randolph County first responders recognize the risk to the local vulnerable population in situations where emergency personnel like police, firefighters and paramedics interacting with such individuals may require information about the person to ensure appropriate response and safety during emergencies. 

Who is a ‘vulnerable person’? 

A vulnerable person is defined as someone who due to medical, cognitive, mental health or physical condition may exhibit patterns of behavior that may pose a danger to that person or someone around them, including people who suffer from dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease or have an autism diagnosis.

What is the Guardian Project?

The purpose of the Guardian Project/Vulnerable Population Registry is to provide emergency responders with important information from individuals who may require assistance during an emergency such as a flood, hurricane, power outage, medical emergency or if a person is missing. 

The registry is a community-focused policing source designed to enhance and promote communication between vulnerable individuals, their support networks and emergency agencies.  

The program is voluntary and individuals in the registry may decide whether or not to accept assistance. Completion of the registry form in no way ensures that the individual completing it will receive immediate or preferential treatment in an emergency. Individuals should maintain a personal emergency plan.

How does this work? 

The easy answer is voluntary participation. An individual and their caregiver can choose to register information about their specific needs, including medical conditions, communication preferences, emergency contact details, a detailed physical description and any specific sensitivities the individual may have. Information submitted to the registry is strictly confidential and used solely for emergency response purposes.

The information is integrated into Randolph County’s computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, providing prompt accessibility and ensuring that essential information/critical detail is available to first responders to tailor their response to the situation and meet the specific needs of individuals listed in the registry during service calls.

The information provided for the person could also help first responders locate them and return them home promptly if they were to wander away from home. 

Goals for the registry?

- An informed response. To provide law enforcement and emergency responders quick access to critical information about a registered person so the responder can assist in an emergency.  Having readily available information lets first responders quickly assess a situation and provide appropriate assistance, potentially saving valuable time in critical moments.

- The registry empowers individuals with vulnerabilities to feel more secure and supported in their community.

- This initiative encourages collaboration between community members, agencies and law enforcement to better serve vulnerable populations.

How to register?

Individuals interested in registering with the Guardian Project — Vulnerable Population Registry can scan the accompanying QR code or visit https://www.randolphcountync.gov/FormCenter/RCSO-11/Vulnerable-Person-60 to register online. 

For more information or to help with registration, contact Dep. Tammy Brady, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach: tammy.brady@randolphcountync.gov.