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Brandon Police Partner with Mental Health Experts for Safer Community
17 Jan
Summary
- Police and mental health clinicians form a new Crisis Response Unit.
- Unit operates daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round.
- Provincial funding of over $290,000 supports the initiative.
In Brandon, a new Crisis Response Unit has been established, featuring police officers working alongside mental health clinicians. This collaborative approach, which officially began in September 2025, aims to transform how sensitive mental health emergencies are handled, prioritizing de-escalation and compassionate care. The unit operates seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., ensuring continuous support for those in crisis.
This initiative is designed to prevent tragic outcomes often associated with past police interactions during mental health crises. By building trust and providing consistent support, the unit aims to guide individuals toward necessary mental health services, reducing the likelihood of repeat emergencies and interventions by tactical police units. The program received over $290,000 in annual provincial funding.
Advocates and officials praise the unit as a vital community resource, aligning with broader efforts to support vulnerable populations facing challenges like addiction and homelessness. This collaborative model emphasizes that individuals in crisis require support rather than punishment, with the goal of saving lives and improving well-being through connection to community-based mental health services.
