London's two New Democrat MPPs are demanding the Wynne government offer more support to mental health services in the city.
Peggy Sattler (London West) and Teresa Armstrong (London Fanshawe) both rose during Question Period on Tuesday to press Deputy Premier Deb Matthews for action in the wake of the news of the closure of the London and District Distress Centre at the end of 2016.
“Telephone crisis support provides a key entry point into a mental health system that is already stretched to the limit," Sattler said. "Too many Londoners in crisis have been turned away from ER or forced to wait days to access emergency mental health services. The new 24/7 mental health crisis centre is already at capacity. What will the Acting Premier do to ensure that the community mental health services Londoners need are in place, after they call the crisis line?”
Matthews answered Sattler's question by pointing to recent investments in mental health services in the London area.
"I can assure you that this is a high priority for our government. We have invested substantially in mental health services including, as she (Sattler) mentioned the new 24/7 crisis centre," Matthews replied.
The London North Centre MPP was then questioned by Armstrong, who suggested the investments and changes made by the Ontario Liberals haven't gone far enough.
“London’s new 24/7 mental health crisis centre was full almost from the day it opened,” Armstrong claimed. “About 70 per cent of those walking in the door are first-time users of mental health supports. Sixty per cent of people are under the age of 35. Clearly, the demands for mental health services in London are increasing and will continue to grow. What concrete action will the Acting Premier take to expand access to community-based mental health services in London?”
Funding cuts will mean the end of London and District Distress Centre at the end of 2016 after 48 years. Funding that previously went to the centre will now be directed to ConnexOntario Health Services.
The head of the Canadian Mental Health Association Middlesex says the streamlining of phone services to a single access point won’t jeopardize the individuals who rely on them.
Watch the exchange below.
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