Peel paramedics receive funding to support staff suicide awareness training

BRAMPTON, ON (Nov. 26, 2025) – Peel Regional Paramedic Services has received funding from the Ontario government to strengthen mental health supports for its staff. The funding comes from the government’s Mental Health Supports for Public Safety Personnel Program, which provides specialized services for paramedics, police officers, firefighters and other public safety workers.

Research from the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment reveals that approximately 45% of public safety personnel screen positive for at least one mental health disorder, compared to about 10% in the general population.

"We know paramedics are more likely to experience anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges, which makes it so important that they feel safe and supported at work," says Paramedic Chief Brian Gibson.

Peel Regional Paramedic Services will use the funding to equip supervisors with suicide prevention and intervention skills so they can better recognize and respond to staff in need of help. The grant will also fund workshops on key wellness topics including sleep health, trauma-informed resilience and managing compassion fatigue.

"Supervisors have told us they want to be better prepared to support their team, especially after a difficult 911 call when paramedics could be in crisis,” says Paramedic Chief Brian Gibson. “This training will help them do that while also acknowledging that supervisors themselves experience cumulative stress and trauma and may need support too."

Supporting paramedic success and well-being is a priority for Peel Regional Paramedic Services, as identified in its 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. In addition to suicide awareness training, the Service offers a variety of mental health resources and supports, including faster access to psychological assessments through a partnership with Trillium Health Partners.

"The Ontario government's support will help us continue building a psychologically healthy and safe workplace where every member of our staff feels safe and well," says Chief Gibson. "When paramedics thrive, so do the communities they serve."