“The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) applauds the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance for highlighting the importance of improved mental health as a priority to be addressed in a new Health Accord. In the first recommendation of its pre-budget report entitled, Creating the Conditions for Economic Growth: Tools for People, Businesses and Communities, the Committee calls for action on a mental health strategy for Canada.
During our initial 10-year mandate, the MHCC developed, in partnership and consultations with thousands of stakeholders across the country, Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada, which has been instrumental in the development of mental health policies in all provinces and territories. The recommendations made in the Strategy identify directions for change while building on the many excellent initiatives already underway across the country.
In July 2016, the MHCC published Advancing the Mental Health Strategy for Canada: A Framework for Action (2017-2022), a plan for implementing the recommendations put forward in the Strategy. This is crucial to improving mental health services in Canada and ensuring that all communities have access to effective mental healthcare.
The Committee’s report highlighted that some organizations recommended increased social spending and funding for mental health, and ensuring that transfers to the provinces and territories are targeted for mental healthcare.
The MHCC is on record that targeted mental health funding, tied to measureable outcomes, must be part of the new Health Accord. It is my hope that the Government of Canada continues to deliver on its promise to improve mental healthcare.”
ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we create change. The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.
www.mentalhealthcommission.ca | strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca
Media Contact:
Hélène Côté, Senior Communications Advisor, Marketing and Communications
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Office: 613.683.3952
Mobile: 613.857.0840
hcote@mentalhealthcommission.ca
