Specialized crisis response services are now being offered in Almaguin Highlands.
Ontario Provincial Police, the Muskoka-Parry Sound Canadian Mental Health Association and B’saanibamaadsiwin Indigenous Mental Health Program have partnered to launch a Mobile Crisis Response Team.
This new local initiative pairs an officer with a crisis worker to attend calls together involving individuals in crisis.
The OPP says police can focus on safety while the crisis worker helps to de-escalate the situation and provide immediate support.
“MCRTs also conduct proactive check-ins, connecting individuals with resources before a crisis occurs,” reads a social media post by the OPP.
Officials say by working together, police and mental health professionals can improve safety and create better outcomes for everyone.
