Diversion and Court Support - Mental Health
Youth Mental Health Court Worker (YMHCW) Program provides support to youth who are in conflict with the law and presenting with mental health needs, illness or disorder.
The worker establishes effective linkages between the youth in conflict with the law, the Youth Justice Court (Youth Court System) and appropriate community mental health and justice resources. The YMHCW functions as a short-term “bridge” between these systems to reduce barriers to youth accessing necessary mental health and other community-based services to reduce recidivism.
The YMHCW Program is an alternative to the Court process for youth who have been identified with mental health needs. The program assists youth who are considered appropriate for diversion to access mental health services and other community supports. The program develops diversion plans, works directly with the youth linking them to mental health and community-based services.
Where the Crown Attorney believes the youth is experiencing mental health issues and would benefit from community-based services, the Crown Attorney may withdraw the charges after the youth completes the YMHC Program which addresses their needs and increases access to community treatment and support.
The YMHCW can provide consultation to the Youth Justice Court, Crown Attorney, defence and duty counsel, and parents with respect to concerns about a youth’s mental health.
Referrals for the YMHCW Program can be made by a youth, family member, caregiver, police officer, Crown Attorney, defence and duty counsel or community agency. All referrals will be received by the YMHCW at NEOFACS.
Eligibility:
- evidence of mental health needs and/or behavioural needs
- youth's mental health needs must be able to be effectively managed within the community.
- youth has been charged with a Class I or less serious Class II type offence
- youth who is on a probation order and receives a new divertible charge
North Eastern Ontario Family and Children's Services - Cochrane
451 Chalmers Avenue
Cochrane
North Eastern Ontario Family and Children's Services
Main Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Summer hours (June 1-August 31): 0830-1600.
Phone: 705-360-7100
Toll Free: 800-665-7743
Toll Free: 866-229-5437
FAX: 705-360-7200