The government of B.C. says it has opened 10 involuntary treatment beds at Surrey Pretrial Services Centre for those struggling with addictions or mental health.
The beds were part of a commitment the government made in September 2024, just days before a provincial election was announced.
Involuntary treatment is permitted under the provincial Mental Health Act.
The government said that the beds would be for those “who are in crisis” with overlapping mental health and addictions challenges. The care will also be provided for those with brain injuries due to toxic-drug overdoses, according to the provincial government.
“When someone’s severe mental-health and addictions care needs are not met, it often leads to a revolving door of crime and jail,” said Premier David Eby….