Residents can have their say in a review of policing procedures, particularly around mental health calls.

Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District will give community members the chance to engage in the review of policing and public safety culture in the province.

The Policing and Public Safety Modernization initiative was created by the Government of B.C. in response to the Transforming Policing and Community Safety in B.C. Report, which called for the community to inform policing services. The initiative was established to make progress on reforming the Police Act.

鈥淲e aim to gather community members鈥� valued opinions, lived experiences, and feedback to help develop policy and inform new policing legislation for the province, particularly when it comes to mental health,鈥� said CMHA Vernon in a release. 鈥淭his information will also influence the structure of CMHA programs and services.鈥�

CMHA will host two shared experience sessions, allowing participants to provide their first-hand experiences:

鈥� Thursday, Jan. 25, 6-8:30 p.m.;

鈥� Thursday, Feb. 1, from 1-3:30 p.m.

There will also be a roundtable discussion where participants can answer various questions regarding the Policing and Public Safety Modernization initiative and contribute their expertise and opinions. The roundtable takes place Monday, Jan. 29, 6-8:30 p.m. at CMHA Vernon.

鈥淧articipating in these sessions contributes to a more holistic and inclusive community dialogue on policing and public safety,鈥� said CMHA. 鈥淵our engagement helps ensure that the voices and experiences of community members are heard and considered in shaping future policies and initiatives.鈥�

Residents can also participate in a survey that will inform policymakers of what communities need regarding policing and public safety.

To register for the public sessions, complete the survey, and learn more about the process, go to . The survey is open until Feb. 2.