Whereas the addictive substances emergency claims the lives of many British Columbians on a daily basis in addition to its adverse economic effects; And whereas treatment facilities have a wait time that is beyond that of those struggling with active addiction further exacerbating the costs to British Columbians: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM lobby the Province to fund, develop, and implement a wide spectrum of treatment on demand programs.
Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions Government is committed to improving access to culturally safe, effective, seamless, and integrated services across the full spectrum of mental health and substance use care, from prevention and early intervention through aftercare. Since 2017, the Province has implemented over 436 new adult and youth substance use treatment and recovery beds to increase access to services when people need them. To continue expanding the spectrum of treatment and recovery services available, Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions has made an historical investment of 586 million through Budget 2023. Budget 2023 added more than 1 billion to support people who struggle with mental health or substance use challenges so they can access the care they need when they need it. Budget 2023 included funding for: - 195 more treatment and recovery beds throughout BC, with no out of pocket fees. - A new model of seamless care, called Road to Recovery, to support people through their entire recovery journey, enhancing wrap-around supports. - Expansion of Indigenous-led treatment centres. - New recovery communities to support people and their recovery through the long term; and, - Expanding the Red Fish model of care to other areas of the province so people can get specialized care closer to home. The Ministry continues to work across government, with Indigenous partners and with communities and families to expand mental health and substance use treatment supports that meet the diverse needs of people across BC.