The Winnipeg Mental Health Court: Preliminary Findings on Program Implementation and Criminal Justice Outcomes

Abstract

Mental health courts (MHC) are still relatively new in Canada and there is a dearth of research available regarding program structure and outcomes. This article presents preliminary evaluation findings on the operation of the new Winnipeg MHC program, launched in 2012. In addition to profiling the demographic, legal, and mental health backgrounds of program participants, we use a pretest- post-test design to compare rates of criminal justice involvement (N = 35). Participation in the MHC appeared to reduce justice system contact, supporting at least initial optimism about program efficacy. Greater inclusion of minorities was an area targeted for improvement. Study findings provide partial support for further development and implementation of mental health courts in Canada.