Rob Jamieson, president of the Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA), officially launched the Encompas Mental Health Wellness Program (Encompas) yesterday. This program, fully funded by the Government of Ontario and powered by Dalton Associates, will provide OPPA members, OPP Commissioned Officers’ Association (COA) members and OPP retirees with a “comprehensive and integrated” network for mental health wellness care.
“This is a historic day for the OPPA and its members,” Jamieson said. “Encompas represents a quantum-leap forward in mental health care for our sworn and civilian members. With this program, our members finally have access to a complete “circle of care” platform for all their mental health wellness needs. We are truly grateful that the Government of Ontario has stepped up to fund this much needed program for our membership.”
The Encompas navigation model has been fashioned to be the primary point of contact, connecting OPPA members, who are currently in receipt of benefits, to mental health services across the province, inclusive of aftercare to support the member. The program provider, Dalton Associates, has secured care providers in all corners of the province, with over 150 on its roster at the launch of the program.
“The health and well-being of our men and women in uniform is a top priority for our government. Our OPP officers, 911 dispatchers, investigators and support staff are always there when we need them most to keep us safe, and we need to have their backs too,” said Premier Doug Ford. “I want to thank Comm. Carrique, the OPPA, and Solicitor General Sylvia Jones for taking the lead in developing this outstanding new program that will provide the necessary 24/7 supports to active and retired officers on their journey to mental wellness.”
The current COVID-19 outbreak is “a reminder of how much we rely on frontlines and why it is so important to look after their mental health and wellbeing,” added Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General.
OPP Comm. Thomas Carrique stated that “increasing access to a range of health services is important to meeting the needs of our dedicated OPP members and their families. Encompas is a welcomed program that will complement the OPP’s commitment to supporting the well-being of our members. The OPP looks forward to continuing to work together with the OPPA and others to build upon the support options available to our uniform and civilian members who work hard every day to keep our communities safe.”
Members of the OPPA in need of mental health support can call 1-866-794-9117. This toll-free number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Headquartered in Barrie, the Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA) acts as the bargaining agent for its nearly 10,000 uniform and civilian members.
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