Whereas the stresses faced by local elected officials are increasing due to a degradation in the tone of civil discourse; And whereas additional mental health supports for local elected officials would be beneficial beyond what is provided by Medical Services Plan and extended health plans; And whereas elected officials arent covered by mental health provisions afforded to local government employees: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM call upon the Province of British Columbia to implement initiatives that offer mental health supports tailored to the needs of local elected leaders in British Columbia.
Ministry of Health The Province of British Columbia recognizes that local elected officials face increasing pressures and acknowledges the importance of mental well-being for those serving in public office. The Province values ongoing dialogue with UBCM and local governments on issues affecting local elected leaders and the Ministry of Health welcomes continued discussion with UBCM to better understand the unique challenges they face and to explore opportunities for improved access to resources. The Province notes that mental health supports are available to all British Columbians through the publicly funded health-care system, including physician services and community-based mental health supports, and continues to make significant investments to strengthen access to mental health care across the province. Since 2019, BC Government has funded counselling services through the Community Counselling Grant CCG program. As of September 2025, service organizations across the Province provided more than 362,000 counselling sessions, with 72,000 people accessing counselling for the first time. In 2025, BC Government invested 6.7 million to continue these services. Forty-four community-based organizations in all health authorities in the province, including urban, rural and Indigenous communities, received funding to provide supports. Free and low-cost mental-health resources are available at: helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca or you can call a 247 crisis line for immediate support at: - 310-Mental Health Support 310-6789 no area code needed - 1-800-SUICIDE 1-800-784-2433 or 988 - Kuu-us Crisis Line for Indigenous People - 1-800-588-8717.