Campbell River’s crisis intervention team was the second busiest in B.C. in 2023.
The Campbell River Situation Table is comprised of representatives from 20 local agencies that evaluate referred cases where people are at risk and get them help quickly.
Coordinator Stefanie Hendrickson says the group was “extremely active” last year.
“We had 61 referrals, 51 which were accepted. Of 26 operational situation tables, were were second only to Surrey,” Hendrickson told city councillors Tuesday morning.
A quarter of those referrals came from the RCMP, followed by the Vancouver Island Mental Health Society.
Hendrickson made the presentation to council asking for the city to send a letter of support to Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth, asking for additional one-time funding because their money will run out this fall.
She says additional one-time funding would allow them to continue for another 18 months.
If the province doesn’t fund it, she’s asked the city to consider paying the $15,000 a year.
The city already provides office space and administrative support.
Asked by Coun. Ben Lanyon whether $15,000 was “under resourcing” the situation table, Hendrickson said it “somewhat limits the operation,” such as not allowing for more data analysis.
The most recent data analysis for those under 18 referred to the service show the top risk factors are “parenting and supervision concerns,” mental health and suicide/self-harm, Hendrickson said. Most of the referral are adults.
The group’s future goals include bringing on more agencies, involving the Campbell River Fire Department and more data study.
The Campbell River Situation Table started in May 2022.
