The OPP is set to receive $12.5 million over three years to strengthen mental health services for police and their families.
The funding will help hire 20 more mental health support staff and also enhance the OPP’s Healthy Workplace initiative to address mental health issues and occupational stress injuries.
Sylvia Jones, Ontario’s Solicitor General says police are amongst the professionals most likely to be exposed to occupational stress situations while protecting communities.
“They often put themselves in harm’s way and experience incidents that most of us will never have to face,” says Jones. “This is why our government is stepping up to significantly enhance the mental-health and well-being services and supports that are available to our valued officers, staff and their families.”
The Healthy Workplace program is available to OPP officers and civilians, retired members, as well as their family members. Its enhancements will also allow the OPP to provide consultation and support to its Indigenous and municipal police partners.
OPP Association President and CEO Rob Stinson welcomes the funding and says there can never be enough support.
“Our government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our dedicated policing heroes and will always ensure that we prioritize their health and well-being,” adds Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “We will stop at nothing when it comes to making sure these officers and support staff have access to the highest quality mental health and addictions care that meets their unique needs. Because we know you simply can’t have good health without mental health.”