RCMP and Interior Health discuss improved response to mental health calls

A working group, involving police and Interior Health representatives, is being formed to improve the RCMP’s response to mental health related calls in B.C.’s Southern Interior.

A RCMP news release said the agencies will identify challenges and issues in providing services to people experiencing a mental health or a substance abuse crisis, and will work toward creating a standardized crisis response and consistent service model for communities.

The working group will also develop guidelines for information sharing.

“My team is fully committed to working with Interior Health on finding solutions together,” Chief Superintendent Brad Haugli, RCMP Southeast District Commander, said. “I am encouraged by the fact that the working group will develop a roadmap to guide us on expanding our support and services to our communities, and to those in crisis. This is a priority for all of us.”

The idea for the working group began last fall when RCMP Southeast District senior managers met with Interior Health officials to explore opportunities for both agencies to work together and enhance the overall response to mental health related calls for service.

“Interior Health welcomes the opportunity to work closely with our RCMP colleagues to support people in crisis,” Roger Parsonage, interim vice president of Interior Health, said. “Together our working group will focus on exploring options to improve crisis response throughout the southern Interior.”

Haugli added the initiative is in the early stages, and RCMP will update the community as new programs are developed.