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New beds improve care for incarcerated people with mental-health, addiction issues

North Vancouver, BCGovernment

Surrey Pretrial Services Centre has opened ten new involuntary care beds to assist incarcerated individuals dealing with mental health and addiction issues. Premier David Eby stated that this initiative aims to disrupt the cycle of crime related to unaddressed mental health needs. The care provided will meet the criteria under the Mental Health Act, focusing on stabilizing men in provincial custody. Minister of Health Josie Osborne highlighted the growing population of those with severe mental health challenges linked to toxic-drug overdoses. The Provincial Health Services Authority will operate the designated mental health unit, with renovations for a permanent space expected to conclude by late fall or early winter 2025.

In the interim, the beds will operate in a segregation unit. This initiative complements the government's commitment to expand mental health services, including additional involuntary care beds at Alouette Homes by spring 2025. The effort aligns with recommendations from B. C. ’s first chief scientific adviser for psychiatry, Dr.

Daniel Vigo, who aims to improve mental health and addiction treatment across the province.

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