With a massive waiting list for Child and Youth Mental Health services in Campbell River, North Island MLA Claire Trevena says too many young people are falling through the cracks.

 

And she’s calling on the new minister responsible for Children and Family Development to take the matter seriously and ensure the department is fully resourced.

 

Trevena has discovered that as many as 50 children are waiting for assessment.

 

“It is disgraceful that so many children and young people are on the wait list for help. Imagine if there were 50 children with what’s perceived as traditional health needs – if they were not being diagnosed with mumps or meningitis -- there would be outrage,” said Trevena.

 

“Mental health care is equally important. It is not something which should be sidelined or ignored. And young people should not lose out because of cost cutting.”

 

Trevena says the problem is compounded for North Island families whose children might need more intervention, because there are very few residential options for assistance for youngsters on Vancouver Island.

 

She has written to the Minister asking for immediate action to address the problem and will be raising the matter when the Legislature resumes sitting.