What is the Lanark County Situation Table (LCST)?

The LCST has operated since 2015 and brings frontline human-service agencies together to provide wrap-around support for people who meet a defined threshold of "acutely elevated risk" - which is when someone is at imminent risk of... self-harm or harming someone else. There are more than two dozen local agencies represented at the LCST. Members work in a privacy-protective format to try to quickly connect people to appropriate services.

Referrals come from agencies when they have a client they believe meets the threshold for AER, exceeds their capacity to respond within their own agency alone, exhibits multiple risk factors and requires a multi-agency response. The LCST does not take self-referrals.

Since it began, the LCST has had more than 400 agency referrals, with 79% meeting the required risk threshold to proceed and 83% resulting in overall risk being lowered. Over that time, mental health, criminal involvement and drugs have been the top three risks.

This valuable tool also provides an opportunity for networking between local agencies, ensuring that service providers are aware of a wide range of programs available to support their clients.

October 10 is World Homeless Day, which aims to raise awareness, prevent and end homelessness. Leading up to it, we're posting some frequently asked questions about homelessness in Lanark County. See below for today's questions.

Question:
Would long-term hospitalization help... address homelessness?

Answer:
Generally, no. Hospitals provide medical care, not housing. While some individuals experiencing homelessness may require extended hospital care due to complex physical disabilities, chronic illness, mental health challenges, or other significant health needs, homelessness itself is best addressed through stable housing and appropriate supports. A compassionate response includes accessible and affordable housing, disability supports, healthcare, mental health services, and case management that help people live safely and with dignity in the community. Evidence shows these housing-focused approaches lead to better long-term outcomes than hospitalization alone.

Question:
How do we provide support without creating dependency?

Answer:
The goal is to help people build stability, confidence, and independence. Everyone's situation is different. Some people need short-term support to get back on their feet, while others, including seniors, people with disabilities, or those facing health and mental health challenges, may need ongoing assistance. A person-centred approach focuses on providing the right support at the right time, helping people achieve their goals, maintain housing, and live with dignity as independently as possible.

Learn more about homelessness in Lanark County at https://www.lanarkcounty.ca/living/social-services/homelessness/#1750959335112-9ca9ce1f-d332

October is Cyber Security Month!

Cyber security doesn’t have to be complicated. You can #GetCyberSafe by taking small steps like learning how to make stronger passwords:

https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/resources/video-creating-strong-password