Services and Housing In the Province received funding to expand the Short Stay program in Mississauga.
The expansion is intended to divert persons in a mental health and/or addictions crisis from incarceration, the justice system, and/or unnecessary hospitalization by providing them with voluntary community crisis accommodation and support.
The funding is intended to service persons in immediate contact with police and will include de-escalation and stabilization of the initial crisis. It will also connect clients with services and supports to enable stable, community living that addresses their health and well-being over the longer term.
This is a partnership with Peel Addiction and Referral Centre (PAARC). The expansion includes a PAARC Addiction Specialist which will be involved in many of the core programming activities. The Addiction Specialist will be an integrated member of the Safe Beds Program.
The service will see over 150 new clients supported.
ELIGIBILTY:
- 16 years of age or older
- Persons experiencing mental health crises and / or problematic substance use who are in immediate conflict with the law
- Those who would benefit from access to temporary placement in a supportive environment
ACCESS:
The referral pathway must be one or more of the following:
- Brought by police directly
- Brought by mobile crisis team (collaboration with community mental health and police team)
- Brought to hospital by police on a Mental Health Act apprehensions but who are not deemed appropriate for an admission, and are then referred by the hospital or brought by police
POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
- Improved health and social outcomes
- Decreased crisis resulting in fewer police calls
- Increased diversion from detention centres
- Reduced visits to the ER department and re-hospitalizations
- Identification of Health Links clients and the creation of Coordinated Care Plans
NEXT STEPS:
Please contact Shereen Rampersad at shereen.rampersad@shipshey.ca for more information if you are interested in learning more about this exciting initiative.
