PC leader unveils latest platform plank at PC Party training session
DARTMOUTH, NS – A Progressive Conservative government led by Jamie Baillie will make sure school-based adolescent mental health services and programs are available in all schools in the province.
Baillie made the announcement today at the NSCC Waterfront Campus in Dartmouth where he was joined by PC candidates, campaign workers and supporters who are attending training sessions.
“Every child deserves to reach their full potential,” said Baillie. “Placing adolescent mental health services in every school across the province is a priority for me and for a Progressive Conservative government.”
Baillie is proud of the work being done by advocates in the community like Laurel Walker, but says more can be done by government to support young people. Walker organizes the Halifax Suicide Prevention Walk, which Baillie attended earlier this month.
She is a tireless advocate for young people who are at risk for suicide. She believes it is very important that we make mental health support and professionals more accessible for youth.
“The earlier we provide services, education and intervention to youth dealing with mental illness, the better their mental health will be for the future,” says Walker. “If we can save one life, it’s worth it.”
Baillie says it is for people like Laurel Walker and the hundreds of others like her that Progressive Conservatives do what they do.
“Nova Scotia has an opportunity to be a leader on the issue of youth mental health,” said Baillie. “Teachers are often the first to recognize youth at risk for mental illness. Providing support and resources to them and other students is key to helping them recognize a problem and intervene before a crisis situation.”
Young people are a priority for Jamie Baillie and the PCs. In August, Baillie announced that a PC government would also put vocational training back in schools.
“Healthy, productive young people are an important part of our long-term plan to fix our economy and make our province an even better place to live,” said Baillie.