Wellington County has a new suicide prevention program called The “Here4Hope” strategy.
The rate of suicide in Wellington County is 2.5 times higher than the provincial average.
The county is working with the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington on the three-year program to create a whole community approach to suicide prevention and awareness. It includes mental health training, support and resources for OPP and Wellington County employees, and the community.
At the same time, Wellington County OPP applied for a three-year grant of $180,000 per year to implement the Integrated Mobile Police and Crisis Team – Suicide Prevention/Postvention Support Programme.
“This strategy will not only equip our staff with the tools, support and resources to help themselves and their loved ones, but over 850 County employees will be able to assist others who may be struggling in the community,” commented Scott Wilson, CAO of the County of Wellington. “Many people in our community have been either directly or indirectly affected by suicide. There is a great need for support in this area. Over the years, the County has implemented a number of programs dedicated to wellness. Building on that work, the County will continue to set short and long-term objectives dedicated specifically to mental health.”
“The rate of suicide in Wellington County is 2.5 times higher than the provincial average,” commented Helen Fishburn, executive director of CMHA WW. “Promoting life and preventing suicide requires a whole community approach and this partnership recognizes that this important work requires expertise, leadership and coordination. We are proud and privileged to be doing this important work with the County of Wellington and Wellington OPP.”
