VIDEO: Programs that are changing lives in the DTES

Two influential programs that bring much needed mental health care to patients and residents of the Downtown East Side (DTES), the Severe Addiction and/or Mental Illness Action Plan and the Vancouver Intensive Supervision Unit, were recognized as finalists for the prominent Premier’s Award in Innovation and Excellence. The annual provincial awards commemorate BC Public Service employees for their professionalism, dedication and innovative work. In order to be considered a finalist, applicants must have made a difference in the lives of many who live in the communities of BC.

Severe Addiction and/or Mental Illness (SAMI) 120 Day Action Plan:

SAMI is the mental health action plan created this year to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of people suffering with severe addiction and mental illnesses in all health regions.

In 2013, at the request of the Ministry of Health, VCH undertook a focused review, known as the “120 day action plan”, of the continuum of care and the partnerships required to care for individuals with severe addiction, often with severe mental illness, who have complex health, housing and other system needs. Clinicians, academics and researchers, government planners, and operational leaders collaborated on care models and strategies that would support this population across the continuum of care.

As a result new programs were implemented across VCH and PHC to respond to the needs of marginalized and at-risk populations, including the Acute Behavioural Stabilization Unit, the Rapid Response Assertive Outreach Team, the Assertive Community Treatment Team, as well as several group home and complex treatment beds and increased capacity for the Inner City Youth Program.

Vancouver Intensive Supervision Unit (VISU) Program:

VISU provides hands-on case management to individuals who have frequent run-ins with the law. Many of these people who are charged with petty crimes are known to be mentally ill and often homeless. VISU can be seen on the streets, interacting with clients and helping them make transitions to secure housing and social settings. VISU is a partnership between Community Mental Health (VCH), Foresnsic Psychiatric Services, and Community Corrections. “We try to do a lot of things that are psycho-social supports that move people towards living independently in the community and move on once their probationary period has ended,” explained Dr Bill MacEwan, Consulting Psychiatrist of VISU.

Congratulations to the teams of SAMI and VISU. To be nominated as a finalist is considered a rare achievement for such an exceptional award!