Whereas local governments experience increasing pressures on emergency services, policing, bylaw enforcement, homelessness response, and community safety systems associated with gaps in timely and accessible mental health services; And whereas access to counselling and other mental health supports is often dependent on private insurance coverage, employer benefits, session limits, or out-of-pocket costs, creating barriers to equitable access, particularly in rural and northern communities: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia take steps to improve access to universal, publicly funded mental health services, including counselling and related supports, with a focus on early intervention and prevention.
