Towards Recovery Framework

In March 2017, the All-Party Committee on Mental Health and Addictions released Towards Recovery: A Vision for a Renewed Mental Health and Addictions System for Newfoundland and Labrador (PDF).

System transformation

The report outlines 54 recommendations that address service gaps as well as support what is currently working well in the mental health and addictions system in the province. System transformation is a high priority for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and a priority that requires immediate action in order to better meet the needs of residents.

Goal, vision and values

The goal of the action plan is to guide the implementation of the recommendations outlined in Towards Recovery and provide direction for mental health and addictions policy and programs.

The vision and values established to guide both the implementation of the recommendations and the delivery of mental health and addictions services in Newfoundland and Labrador is that:

“A province that promotes positive mental well-being and resilience and supports individuals and families with lived experience of mental illness and addiction to live full and rewarding lives.”

A new facility

The report specifically addressed the need of a new adult mental health and addictions facility. Recommendation 12 states: “The Waterford Hospital must be replaced as an urgent priority. While it is recognized that some type of infrastructure and in-patient services are needed, having them all located in one psychiatric hospital is not the answer.”

Towards Recovery can be viewed in full at the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s website.