BC Nurses' Union keeps up pressure to fight mental health clinic closures

The recent decision by the Fraser Health Authority to cut mental health services at evening clinics is a concern for all municipalities in the region, including Burnaby says BC Nurses' Union President Debra McPherson.

Speaking to Burnaby City Council last night, McPherson said many patients who used night time group therapy clinics will now have to try to get help during the day. She said they are often the working poor, who don't have sick time or benefits and simply can't book time off to get to an appointment. In her speech, McPherson emphasized the need for community services to be accessible to all, especially the most vulnerable.

McPherson also noted that nurses who are struggling to support 70 patients are being told by the Health Authority that they should limit their visits to once a month, for only half an hour. "Treating patients with mental illness takes more than monthly, 30 minute sessions. Nurses know this and we all worry about the long-term effects this will have on patients' safety and progress."

The Canadian Mental Health Association says in BC, Burnaby ranks second, next to Surrey, when it comes to the number of people suffering from mental illness.

The Mayor and Councillors expressed strong concern about the loss of evening clinics for the mentally ill in Burnaby. Councillor Nick Volkow called the Fraser Health decision "outrageous" and Mayor Derek Corrigan said the health authority was being penny wise and pound foolish. Council has asked staff to gather more information on the impact to mental health and police services and report back.