In this episode, host Jessica Samuels sits down with Innovation & Project Development Manager at CMHA Kelowna, Jamie Lloyd-Smith to introduce CRCL (Crisis Response Community Led), an innovative new service operated by CMHA Kelowna. CRCL offers a compassionate, community-driven alternative to traditional crisis response—one that does not involve law enforcement and is built on peer support, clinical expertise, and voluntary participation.

Jamie explains who CRCL is for, how it works, why peer experience is foundational, and how it fills a critical gap between crisis phone lines and emergency services. Drawing on insights from other BC communities already using this model, she highlights the power of being met by trained responders—without uniforms, judgement, or police presence—who can meet people where they are and on their terms.

CRCL launches in Kelowna in early 2026 and aims to provide immediate, human-centered support for anyone aged 13+ who is experiencing a mental health crisis.

Key Topics Covered

• What is CRCL?

A mobile, community-led crisis response program.
Stands for Crisis Response Community Led.
Built to bridge the gap between crisis lines and 911.

• Why a community-led model matters

Many people in crisis are met with police response—not always appropriate or trauma-informed.
CRCL teams include clinicians and trained peers with lived experience.

• Role of Peer Support

Peers bring empathy, credibility, and firsthand understanding of navigating mental health challenges.
Their input shaped program design—from how phone calls are answered to how people are greeted.

• How CRCL works

Service for anyone 13+—you can call for yourself or someone else.
Call or text a dedicated number (to be released).
A two-person team responds in person—no uniforms, no police.
Fully consent-based: the individual in crisis directs the process.
Focus on safety, de-escalation, listening, and co-creating a care plan.

• When to call CRCL

“There is never a wrong time to call CRCL.”
Crisis is self-defined.
Early support can prevent emergencies.

• How CRCL fits with existing services

Helps divert people from emergency departments and police involvement.
Strong collaboration with first responders when safety concerns exist.

• Lessons from other BC communities

Kelowna will be the 7th community to implement this model.
Jamie shares insights from Victoria’s program, including partnerships, safety practices, and community relationships.

• Launch timeline

CRCL Kelowna launches early 2026.
CMHA Kelowna will release access details and resources as the program becomes available.

Notable Quotes

“When we don’t include the voice of lived experience, we’re just going to get it wrong.” — Jamie
“There is never the wrong time to call CRCL.”
“You define what crisis looks like in your life—and your experience is valid.”
“This program meets you where you’re at, with compassion, dignity, and choice.”

Resources & Links

Learn more: A Way Forward Podcast page at cmhakelowna.org
Have a question about CRCL or this episode? Email: awayforward@cmhakelowna.org

About the Podcast

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, explores timely and complex mental health topics with local experts, sharing insights that help build healthier, more compassionate communities.