Kennedy proposes all-inclusive model to mental health board

Former NHL player and sexual abuse victim Sheldon Kennedy recently met with Alberta’s new mental health review board to promote the all-inclusive approach used in the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre in Calgary.

It has allowed 85 workers from various disciplines to discuss each child and family case, bringing waiting times for care down to one month from eight months, and saving the system an estimated $500,000 per year, Kennedy said. His centre investigates 125 cases of child abuse each month. Liberal interim leader Dr. David Swann, co-chair of Alberta’s mental health review board, said some legislative changes may be required to allow more integration and communication. Kennedy is one of 21 people who have had one-on-one meetings with Alberta’s mental health review board since it was launched in the spring. The board has had three meetings in First Nations communities, drawing 90 participants. Tyler White, CEO for Siksika Health Serves, is also on the mental health review board.