The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) has released Finding New Pathways: An Action Plan for Criminal Justice and Mental Health in Canada, an evidence-informed roadmap for improving how people experiencing mental health challenges interact with Canada's criminal justice and forensic mental health systems.
Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care was pleased to support the development of the action plan through research and writing contributions over the past two years. Our involvement began in 2023 with a commissioned report examining the psychological health and safety of criminal justice workers, which helped inform the broader initiative.
The action plan was developed through extensive research, engagement, and collaboration with subject matter experts, community partners, and people with lived and living experience. It focuses on three key areas: care before, during, and after criminal justice involvement, with an emphasis on prevention, continuity of care, and cross-sector collaboration.
People experiencing mental health challenges remain significantly overrepresented within Canada’s criminal justice system. The action plan identifies opportunities to strengthen supports, improve outcomes, and foster a more coordinated approach across health, social service, and justice sectors.
Featuring 68 recommended actions, the plan is intended as a practical resource for organizations, governments, and communities seeking to advance meaningful system change. An accompanying reference guide helps readers navigate the recommendations and consider implementation approaches within their own contexts.
Waypoint is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important national initiative and recognizes the many individuals and organizations whose expertise and experiences helped shape its development.