The Windsor Essex First Responder Coalition seeks to develop a unified and collaborative approach to building resilience, reducing stigma, and promoting mental wellbeing in First Responders. As a direct result of doing their job, First Responders are at increased risk of experiencing occupational stress and other mental health issues. In recognition of this, the partners work together to develop strategies and programs to address the continuum of mental health issues known to impact First Responders. It brings employer and employee representatives from all Windsor-Essex County First Responder organizations together to develop a consolidated and tailored approach to promoting mental health as well as helping those who are in need of increased support.
The cornerstone of the project includes the establishment of a First Responder Mental Health Coalition (FRMHC). The coalition, consisting of representatives from all WEC First Responder organizations, St. Clair College, CMHA-WECB, Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW), Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, Family Services Windsor-Essex, Family Services Employee Assistance Program and other mental health experts, would have the mandate to collaboratively undertake the following objectives:
Chief EMS
Windsor Fire
Lakeshore Fire
Essex Fire
LaSalle Fire
Amherstburg Fire
LaSalle Police
Windsor Police
WECHU
OPP
EMS
Tecumseh Fire
EMS
Family Services Employee Assistance Program
Kingsville Fire Chief
Windsor Police
Windsor Fire
HDGH
Director Communications and Mental Health Promotion
Coordinator, Fund Development and Communications