Provincial departments, schools, community agencies and service providers in New Brunswick have joined forces to help children and youth with emotional, behavioural, mental health or addiction needs.
NB Premier Brian Gallant outlines #mentalhealth school support program which launched this month. Pilot program began in 2011 in 34 schools pic.twitter.com/On1pV12CAy
— 91.9The Bend News (@919TheBendNews) September 26, 2017
Originally a pilot project launched in 2011 in Charlotte County and the Acadian Peninsula, the Gallant government has expanded a mental health support program to all schools across the province at a cost of almost $9 million.
During the announcement at Riverview Middle School, Premier Brian Gallant says services will be available in schools and other community settings.
“Services through this program are provided by child and youth teams which are made up of professionals with training in counselling, social work, occupational therapy, psychology, education, nursing, mental health and addictions,” he notes.
According to a government statement, 200 professionals are currently working in the program and 100 new front-line staff are being hired.
The premier adds the program is being recognized across the country by mental health advocates.
