30 August 2022
Today Joshua met with policy advisors of Hon. Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, to discuss and work towards better mental health and a National 988 Suicide and Crisis Line. Throughout the meeting, topics relating to mental health, in general and specific groups, were discussed as well as the national 988 number and its implementation. Further discussions were had regarding the need for the 988 number, how it must be accessible, people must feel safe accessing it, and how such a number must continue to be promoted after it is implemented. Members of Minister Bennett's policy staff reassured their commitment to such a number and working to ensure that it is implemented as soon as possible - including with an upcoming public announcement within the next few weeks about such a number. Follow-up meetings with Minister Bennett's policy staff are being planned within the next few weeks. ###