Nanaimo RCMP are taking steps to help and support people in the throes of a mental health crisis.
The police force is installing a customized plastic glass divider in the backseat of their patrol car so a family member, mental health nurse or observer can safely ride along with the person in crisis.
“The presence of a family member or trained mental health nurse has been shown to significantly reduce the negative impact of an individual who is having an active mental health crisis,” Nanaimo RCMP Const. Gary O’Brien said Saturday.
The proposal to install the divider in the police cruiser, referred to as Car 54, came from the Nanaimo RCMP mental health crisis team.
Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers supported the initiative and presented a cheque for $4,800 to pay for it, said O’Brien.
