People Before Profit Cllr Shaun Harkin has called on Health Minister Mike Nesbitt to intervene over the closure of Extern’s Crisis and Community Intervention Service in Derry.
Said Cllr Harkin: “The imminent closure of (CCIS) is a massive blow for the city.
“CCIS has provided urgent support to thousands of individuals experiencing an acute mental health crisis in Derry City and Strabane District Council area.
“The loss of CCIS is devastating for those who have depended on it, and will undoubtedly increase pressure on healthcare services in a context where mental health continues to be chronically underfunded.
“Our thoughts, and thanks, go to Extern workers and volunteers who will be impacted.
“The lack of secure and sustained funding for CCIS is the responsibility of the Health Minister and Department.
“It’s unacceptable for the Minister to allow a decrease in critical intervention support at this moment, given the rates of self-harm and suicide.
“This announcement, taken along with the core funding cut to the Northlands Centre, is profoundly worrying.
“Vulnerable people need protection and support.
“The Minister is accountable for the loss of this vital service and must immediately act to address the gap in support that will result.”
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