Whereas a significant proportion of the provinces homeless population have mental illnesses; And whereas being homeless presents a threat to their well-being and safety: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM lobby the provincial government to re-evaluate the current outpatient model of mental health care.
Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions The Province is working with local governments and partners to ensure people experiencing homelessness, as well as mental health and substance use challenges, are supported through two public health emergencies - COVID-19 and the overdose emergency. The Province recognizes the need for complex care housing models to meet the needs of a segment of the population that requires more health and social services than are currently provided through existing supportive housing offerings. Development of complex care housing is within the mandate letter of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and the Minister is working across government, including with the Minister responsible for Housing, the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and the Minister of Health, to develop and implement new models to meet the needs of individuals requiring complex care. This work is underway and will involve local government, service providers and health partners as it progresses.