Ontario partners with Paramedic Association of Canada to improve mental health

Ontario is investing nearly $200,000 to support the Paramedic Association of Canada in developing a psychological health and wellness standard that will help identify and address mental health issues for paramedics.
Pierre Poirier, executive director of the Paramedic Association of Canada, says the grant is great news for Ontario paramedics, noting the unique nature of the mental health issues among these workers.

This project will develop, promote and distribute resources that will be used to: identify psychological hazards and possible control measures; increase awareness to help reduce stigma and harassment; increase the capacity of employers to promote the psychological health and wellness of paramedics; and prevent psychological harm from factors in the workplace.

This project is part of the $1.9 million being invested through the Occupational Health and Safety Prevention and Innovation Program (OHSPIP) that supports workplace-focused innovation projects and collaborative partnerships that lead to improvements in occupational health and safety in Ontario. Funding will support initiatives that aim to improve safety for workers, protect young and vulnerable workers, help small businesses advance their health and safety practices and support workplace mental health.