YOUR PERSPECTIVE: Supporting people in crisis

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The goal is to resolve a crisis collaboratively and in the least intrusive way possible. This could include verbal de-escalation, the involvement of friends and family, and determining what other types of care or support would help the individual.

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MICR Teams also help divert people from hospital ERs and the criminal justice system, helping to reduce the criminalization of those dealing with mental health or substance use challenges. They also help free up police resources, so that officers can focus more on crime in the community.

The teams are built on partnerships between regional health authorities and local police departments or RCMP detachments. Similar teams are already operating in Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond and elsewhere in the province, and we have heard from those communities that the teams are extremely helpful.

I’m eager to see this team launch in Abbotsford and make a difference for our community, especially for more vulnerable community members who are dealing with substance use or mental health concerns.

Of course, MICR Teams are only one part of the solution to our many intersecting challenges. We are also expanding other types of support for people with challenging needs, including peer-assisted care teams as well as complex care housing and supportive housing.

Across B.C. we’re also opening more Foundry centres, like the one here in Abbotsford, that provide mental health and primary care to youth aged 12-24, because we know that tackling challenges early helps young people to thrive as adults.

I’m incredibly grateful for the hard work of our local health care workers, social services workers, and first responders. By working together and being open to new approaches, I know we can build a stronger community for everyone.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of Fraser Valley Today or Pattison Media.