Richmond RCMP takes the lead in mental health support with innovative policing
Richmond
2024-05-06 08:36 PDT
As communities nationwide observe Mental Health Awareness Week from May 6 – 12, 2024, Richmond RCMP is proud to highlight its continued commitment to mental wellness through innovative and compassionate policing initiatives.
The Vulnerable Persons Unit’s (VPU) Fox 80 program, a pioneering mental health crisis response car, is one such initiative. The program pairs a Richmond RCMP constable with a psychiatric nurse from Vancouver Coastal Health providing on-site assessments and facilitating prompt and appropriate access to care. The Fox 80 team actively bridges the gap between first responders and mental health support, creating a seamless network for those in crisis.
Sergeant Wanda Marion of the Vulnerable Persons Unit says, The Fox 80 program epitomizes our approach to community policing, where sensitivity, rapid response, and collaboration are key. By uniting the skills of RCMP officers with trained health professionals, we are not just responding to crises- we are actively contributing to a safer and more supportive community environment.
The VPU’s work extends beyond immediate crisis response. Through proactive strategies, mental health education, and partnership with community stakeholders, the unit aims to foster long-term stability for individuals within the complex landscape of mental health, substance use, and related vulnerabilities by providing clients with follow-up referrals to appropriate Mental Health teams or other agencies most appropriate to their needs.
Also, during Mental Health Awareness Week, Richmond RCMP reaffirms its dedication to the RCMP’s Road to Mental Readiness program, designed to support the mental resilience of police officers and the community alike. This initiative acknowledges the unique challenges of law enforcement and ensures officers have access to the necessary resources and education to thrive amidst these challenges.
Transcription
The officer-in-charge of Richmond RCMP, Chief Superintendent Dave Chauhan, is wearing his police uniform. He is standing in front of a marked police car. Behind is the Richmond RCMP detachment.
On the building above Chief Superintendent Chauhan is the RCMP crest with the buffalo head and Crown. The words Royal Canadian Mounted Police are at the bottom of the crest with the words Richmond RCMP/GRC are on the building on either side.
[Chief Superintendent Dave Chauhan]
"As the Officer-in-Charge of Richmond RCMP, mental health is a subject I know resonates deeply within our ranks.
The nature of police work often places our team in high-stress situations that can take a toll
on their mental health.
We have embraced initiatives like the RCMP’s Road to Mental Readiness, which acknowledges the unique challenges of law enforcement, and ensures our officers have access to the resources and education they need to thrive amidst the challenges they face.
By integrating mental health strategies into our daily operations, we strive not just for a safer community, but a healthier, more robust police force.
Through collaboration and support with our community, we can actively normalize conversations around mental health, break down barriers to creating a supportive culture, and work towards a safer and healthier community."
Screen fades and a message appears "'A CALL TO BE KIND' because compassion connects us all. #CompassionConnects CMHA Mental Health Week May 6-12, 2024." with an image of two females hugging.
Screen fades to black and RCMP copyright notice and Canada wordmark appear.
Richmond RCMP’s strategic commitment to mental health support reflects a broader ethos of preventative and supportive policing and community empowerment. As we mark this week, Richmond RCMP invites the community to engage in open dialogue, support one another, and break down barriers to mental health care.
Additional Resources:
VCH Richmond Mental Health and Substance Use has several programs and services to support children, youth, adults and older adults. The Central Intake team is available to offer information and help connect residents to the service that will best meet their needs. Call the Central Intake team at (604) 204-1111. The intake line is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or drop into the office Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., or 1:00 to 3:30 p.m.
9-8-8 number for mental health and suicide prevention support:
Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate mental health and suicide prevention support to anyone at risk or worried about someone they know. The service is free and can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. more information about 9-8-8 Crisis Helpline, visit the 9-8-8 website.
About Richmond RCMP:
Richmond RCMP is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the Richmond community. For over 70 years, Richmond RCMP has adapted its services to meet the evolving needs of the city it serves, focusing on enhancing community safety through innovation and meaningful partnerships.
11411 No 5 Road, Richmond, BC, V7A 4E8
Office: 604-207-5189
Fax: 604-207-4716
Email:
richmond_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: richmond.rcmp.ca
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