The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing funding of approximately $236,000 to Lifewise NL to pilot a one-year dedicated peer support warm line to improve mental health supports and services for paramedics and other first responders in the province.

The First Responder Warm Line will be staffed by first responders trained in the delivery of peer support, and will be available 12 hours a day, seven days a week. This new service will provide mental health support to first responders, which will then help them support others.

According to a survey administered by Newfoundland and Labrador’s Paramedic Mental Health Working Group, 78 per cent of respondents stated they would access dedicated peer support if available.

In June 2022, the Provincial Government released Our Path of Resilience: An Action Plan to Promote Life and Prevent Suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador. The plan promotes the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace, as well as workplace wellness programs to address compassion fatigue, stress, caregiver responsibilities and other mental health issues.

Lifewise NL supports and encourages individual recovery and the reduction of stigma through the provision of peer support, public education, advocacy and community engagement. More information about Lifewise NL can be found here.

Quotes
“We recognize the valuable role paramedics and other first responders play in the delivery of health care and in support of public safety in Newfoundland and Labrador. This funding reinforces our government’s commitment to ensuring access to mental health supports and services when first responders need them most.”
Honourable Tom Osborne
Minister of Health and Community Services

“Listening to the voices of people receiving mental health care is critical to a successful system. After listening to the voices of first responders, Lifewise is honoured to develop a First Responder Peer Support Warm Line with the support of the Provincial Government. We are confident the warm line will provide a necessary service that supports first responders in maintaining their wellness while doing important work in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Brad Glynn
Executive Director, Lifewise NL

“The mental health of our Paramedic Practitioners is so vital. Having a peer support option like this, available here in our province, and provided by actual first responders, will hopefully help our members and provide an avenue for help for those that need it. Whether it’s just to talk to someone following a difficult call or when you are having a crisis, this resource is now available.”
Rodney Gaudet
President, Paramedic Association of Newfoundland and Labrador

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