KELOWNA – A re-elected BC NDP government will invest up to $90 million to establish involuntary care at the Okanagan Correctional Centre in Oliver for people experiencing severe mental health and addictions challenges along with complex brain injuries.

People experiencing these concurrent disorders may not be in a position to ask for help, and need specialized, compassionate care. That’s why the BC NDP is creating a network of involuntary care centres across the province, to treat those with severe challenges and get them the help they need. There are already involuntary care centres open in Surrey and Maple Ridge, and new facilities opening in Surrey and Prince George.

This commitment builds on the BC NDP’s work to expand voluntary treatment across the province, including adding 860 addiction treatment beds since 2017 and doubling the number of beds for youth.

Across B.C., 35 Foundry centres are open or on the way, including in Kelowna, Penticton and Vernon, providing mental health and addictions services to more than 84,000 youth since 2019, and Access Central is now available in every health authority, connecting people with same-day clinical assessments to help them access treatment.

The conservative parties’ healthcare cuts would mean cuts to mental health and addictions care and less help for people when they need it.

QUOTES:

Loyal Wooldridge, BC NDP candidate for Kelowna Centre –

"As a Kelowna City Councillor, I’ve seen two clear truths: families are desperate to save their loved ones, and everyday people want to feel safe in our public spaces. Walking by someone in total crisis and doing nothing isn't freedom; it's a clear sign we need to take more action. That’s why we are moving forward with real solutions that improve the quality of life for everyone. Compassionate mandatory care is part of the health system that will help build safer streets and get people the help they need."

Harwinder Sandhu, BC NDP candidate for Vernon-Lumby –

“Families are feeling the consequences when people in crisis can’t access the care they need. As a healthcare professional, I’ve seen firsthand the need for safe, appropriate care for those facing complex challenges which makes them unable to make decisions for themselves. We’re committed to building both voluntary and involuntary care options so people can get the right help, at the right time, in the right place.”

Tina Lee, BC NDP candidate for Penticton-Summerland –

“Expanding secure care in the Okanagan will help people in crisis get the treatment they need while supporting better outcomes and safer communities. This is another important step toward building a stronger and more responsive health system.”