The stakes of the BC General Election on October 24 are high. The province is dealing with two public health emergencies—the COVID-19 pandemic and the overdose crisis—while facing a rise in mental illness and substance use.

The economic downturn and public health interventions are contributing to unintended yet significant impacts. Almost 40% of Canadians feel their mental health has worsened since the onset of the pandemic. Many others are facing financial insecurity that puts them at risk of illness.

There is no recovery for BC without mental health.

We need these commitments from political parties:

• Care before crisis. No one is turned away from receiving the care they need, when they need it.
• Foundations for wellness. Everyone has the essentials they need to be well, like reliable income, housing, and community support.
• Dignity always. Everyone is treated with dignity and respect, in care and in community.

Read our full 2020 Election Campaign Platform