Home / Crime and Justice / Durham Police Accused of Opposing Mental Health Claims for Officers
Durham Police Accused of Opposing Mental Health Claims for Officers
16 Nov
Summary
- DRPS "vigorously opposed" PTSD claims by officers
- Report found evidence of "poisoned work environment" and bias
- Concerns over delays in mental health support for officers
A six-year report into the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) has uncovered concerning issues with how the service handles officers' mental health and PTSD claims. According to the heavily redacted report by the Ontario Civilian Police Commission, the DRPS "vigorously opposed virtually every application to the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) for presumptive PTSD," and fought claims of chronic mental stress.
These findings are troubling, as experts say timely interventions are crucial for mental health support. "When help is postponed, healing takes longer," said Alec King of the Canadian Mental Health Association Durham. The report also found evidence that the DRPS ran a "poisoned work environment" marred by bias, intimidation, and dismissive attitudes towards mental health concerns.
While the DRPS has said many of the report's 33 recommendations are already in effect, questions remain about how the service currently handles PTSD and mental stress claims. The report's revelations have sparked broader discussions about the challenges first responders face in accessing mental health support and the role of police boards in ensuring a healthy work culture.
