Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COAST)Partnership between CMHA Simcoe County Branch and three community police services

Recently, Rogers TV featured the Canadian Mental Health Association Simcoe County Branch (CMHA SCB) and its Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COAST).

Over a decade ago, the CMHA SCB Crisis Program introduced the COAST care model to local police. Its success paved the way for the permanent integration of COAST services in 2018. Working closely with three police services—Barrie Police Services, Orillia Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and South Simcoe Police Services—this specialized unit combines a CMHA SCB mental health crisis worker with a police constable.

Operating as a mobile unit in the community, they promptly respond to crisis calls routed through 911 and the 24/7 Crisis Line, with a specific focus on acute mental health and addiction-related crises. The roles and functions of this team include intervention, de-escalation, conducting mental health and risk assessments, and seamlessly linking individuals to the necessary community support services.

This innovative approach effectively redirects individuals away from unnecessary and repetitive hospital visits and reduces reliance on emergency services, including police interactions. Moreover, it plays a vital role in eradicating stigma, promoting safety, and adhering to the best practices in crisis support.

COAST has a recognized and successful history of providing this critical service. From January 2023 to November 24, COAST responded to over 954 service calls across the region. Of these, 86 per cent were in response to 911 calls and/or activated by police. Notably, 80 per cent of these interventions were resolved at time of intervention, effectively averting the need for police apprehension or hospital escorts. In addition, COAST has actively engaged in more than 863 follow-up interactions. These follow-ups continue to be crucial for those individuals having previous (or future) involvement with police, by ensuring appropriate mental health assessment, intervention, and connection to essential and ongoing supports to help stabilize and promote long-term well-being.

COAST operates on rotating shifts and is not yet available 24/7. In an immediate emergency, dial 911. CMHA SCB operates a 24/7 Crisis Line at 1-888-893-8333 or 705-728-5044 and can be contacted for further information around COAST services.

Learn more about CMHA SCB Crisis Services at cmhastarttalking.ca.