Advocates in London, Ont., say people experiencing homelessness and severe mental illness need far more comprehensive and long-term psychiatric support. Sharon Bankes McArthur, whose 38-year-old son with schizophrenia has been living on the streets for nearly two years, says the greatest gap is the lack of ongoing, wrap-around psychiatric care. After early intervention support, her son cycled through hospitals and services but was unable to live independently and is now unsheltered and struggling with addiction.
Health-care leaders confirm the system is stretched. London and surrounding counties are served by seven assertive community treatment (ACT) teams, which support about 600 people with complex mental health needs, but demand exceeds capacity and wait lists can last months. Each ACT team is designed to serve about 85 clients, and experts say one or two additional teams are urgently needed.
Service providers note that people sleeping rough face extra barriers, such as difficulty keeping appointments, which can push them further down wait lists. The city estimates more than 2,000 people are homeless in London, with over one-third requiring the highest level of care.
Bankes McArthur is calling for long-term psychiatric care facilities and more highly supportive housing. Experts agree stable housing is essential, noting that most people placed in supportive housing remain housed and require fewer services.
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