Runnymede’s lifeline for first responders’ mental health
April 7, 2025
First responders face high-stress, trauma-filled environments on a regular basis, yet mental health support for them has long been fragmented – until now. The Runnymede Healthcare Centre is stepping up with the development of a Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) Centre of Excellence for First Responders – Canada's first-ever dedicated rehabilitation centre to treat first responders and frontline health-care workers experiencing PTSI.
At OMERS, we are closely connected to the important work by the Runnymede Healthcare Centre as we have over 50,000 members who are first responders.
Historically, there has been significant stigma associated with seeking mental health care among first responders, creating barriers to accessing support. By framing mental health care as part of rehabilitation, Runnymede aims to change the conversation and treatment to help individuals return to their lives and workplaces.
A cornerstone of Runnymede's initiative is the development of two new purpose-built facilities, Station Nº 3434 and the Caledon Recovery Centre, which are currently in the development and planning stages. Station Nº 3434 in Toronto will offer full outpatient and virtual services. The Caledon Recovery Centre includes a 40-bed residential facility and is specifically designed to provide specialized mental health and addiction services for first responders. The Centre's approach is holistic, combining clinical care with peer support to create a safe and supportive environment for recovery.
The PTSI Centre of Excellence is also part of a broader vision to make mental health services accessible across the province. Runnymede plans to offer digital support to complement its physical facilities, ensuring that first responders across Canada can access the care they need when they need it, regardless of their location.
Runnymede has engaged in extensive stakeholder consultations, including discussions with associations representing first responders. Runnymede's efforts are supported by leaders in the field, including those from Ontario’s first responder community, who understand the importance of mental health support. This leadership, combined with grassroots efforts and collaboration with organizations like OMERS, is key to creating a supportive environment for first responders.
Runnymede has also provided tailored training sessions for our Member Experience team, focusing on emotional awareness and management when navigating sensitive interactions with our members.
To hear more about the incredible Runnymede initiative, check out our podcast episode from season two of The Pension Blueprint looking at mental health, PTSI and members’ pensions.