The Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS) and the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) are partnering to launch a new pilot program for the Mobile Addictions Response Team (MART), designed to enhance community support for individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. This initiative mirrors the current Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) and is made possible through the provincial MCRT Enhancement Grant, which will fund the team for two years. For more information on this grant, please visit:
The Mobile Addictions Response Team will consist of a plain-clothes police officer and an Addictions Therapist from Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Rapid Access Addictions Medicine (RAAM) Clinic. This collaborative approach aims to respond to calls for service involving mental health and addiction issues, ensuring that individuals receive timely care and support.
Key Objectives of the Mobile Addictions Response Team:
- Prompt Response: The team will be equipped to respond rapidly to calls involving elements of addiction, addressing issues as they arise in the community.
- Follow-Up Services: After the initial intervention, the team will conduct follow-up visits to ensure ongoing support and connection to appropriate services.
- Community Collaboration: Working closely with local partners, the Mobile Addictions Response Team aims to create a comprehensive support network that addresses the root causes of addiction in Chatham-Kent.
“As a community, we continue to see the impact that addiction and mental health have on individuals, families and neighbourhoods across Chatham-Kent. The launch of the Mobile Addictions Response Team represents an important step forward in how we respond to these challenges. By partnering with the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, we are able to bring together frontline policing and specialized clinical support in a way that provides timely intervention, compassionate care and meaningful pathways to treatment,” said Chief Kirk Earley.
This collaboration strengthens Chatham-Kent Police Service’s shared commitment to supporting some of our most vulnerable residents, reducing harm and improving community safety. The Chatham-Kent Police Service is proud of the work our teams have done to bring this initiative to life and is confident that the Mobile Addictions Response Team will make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
From a health care perspective, CKHA emphasizes the importance of meeting people where they are and reducing barriers to care.
“At Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, we recognize that addiction is a complex health issue that requires compassion, trust, and strong partnerships,” said Caen Suni, Vice President, Clinical Programs & Operations, CKHA. “Through this program, we are bringing care directly into the community, improving access to timely support, and reinforcing our commitment to putting people at the centre of everything we do.”
CKPS and CKHA are committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and believe that the Mobile Addictions Response Team will be a vital step forward in addressing the complex challenges posed by addiction and mental health crises.