The province has announced a new substance-use treatment and recovery facility will be opening for women in Victoria in the new year.
In a media release, the BC government said the facility, called Coastal Sage Healing House, will include six treatment beds for women and non-binary people who are looking for help with substance-use challenges, as well as concurrent social, mental and physical health needs.
“When women make the courageous decision to come forward and get help, we want supports to meet them,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.
“These new beds will help more women access life-saving treatment and recovery supports and fill a gap in services right here on Vancouver Island.”
Once open, the facility will have clinical supports, support groups, self-care activities, outings and other “wraparound services.”
Residents will be able to stay at the Coastal Sage Healing House for up to 90 days depending on their individual needs.
“Island Health’s Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) team is committed to ensuring eligible participants have timely, appropriate access to this important new service, which will help meet the needs of women, transgender women and non-binary individuals living with significant substance-use concerns,” said Leah Hollins, chair, Island Health’s board of directors.
“Recovery is unique for everyone and this client-centred program will support participants with an environment and approach that are safe, welcoming and inclusive.”
The province expects the centre to open its doors in early 2023.
Those looking to be admitted to Coastal Sage Healing House will first need to get a referral from a clinician, which will then be sent to a triage committee for review.
Anyone living in the Island Health region can apply, and transportation might be available.
