MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE APPOINTED

VANCOUVER -- British Columbia's first mental health advocate has been appointed to monitor the performance of the mental health system and make recommendations about services and programs for people with the most serious mental illnesses, Health Minister Penny Priddy announced today.

Nancy Hall will serve as the province's mental health advocate. Most recently, Hall was the director of health promotion at B.C. Women's Hospital and Health Centre. She has personal experience with the mental health system, as a close family member of someone living with schizophrenia.

"This government is committed to working in partnership with consumers, providers, families and communities to protect people with mental illness so they can live with greater dignity. Nancy Hall, in her role as mental health advocate, will have a direct effect in improving the quality of life for persons with mental illness," Priddy said.

The appointment of the mental health advocate is one part of the province's mental health plan, announced in January. The selection of the advocate has been made by a committee representing consumer, advocacy and providers groups: the Canadian Mental Health Association - B.C. Division; the Provincial Mental Health Consumer Advisory Council; the Provincial Mental Health Family Advisory Council; the Provincial Mental Health Advisory Council; the Mood Disorders Association of B.C.; and the B.C. Schizophrenia Society.

The advocate will be expected to monitor the performance of care systems and suggest policies, practices, programs and services for people with the most serious mental illness. Hall's role will include:

• reviewing quality of care issues;

• advising the Ministry of Health on the adequacy of mental health services;

• liaising with other local, regional, provincial and advocacy services;

• helping to connect people with individual advocacy networks.

"I am confident that we have found a true advocate for persons with mental illness. Nancy Hall brings a unique perspective to the job as mental health advocate. She has experienced the mental health system as a health care researcher and, personally, assisting a family member in getting help from the mental health system," Priddy said.

The appointment of a mental health advocate for British Columbia was recommended by ombudsman Dulcie McCallum. The advisory committee consulted with the mental health community, including people with mental illness and care providers, to define the advocate's role.

The advocate's term is effective immediately for an 18-month period, with the possibility of renewal.

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