Local paramedics create peer support app to help first responders
CBC
A local social media awareness campaign is expanding its reach of support to first responders by creating an app that offers safe, anonymous mental health support.
The IGYB911 app was developed by the #IVEGOTYOURBACK911 campaign, which was started by paramedics Shawn Taylor and Jill Foster in 2014. The duo's awareness campaign raised money through merchandise sales online and in their retail store in St. Thomas, and now they're connecting those who need help with support.
"It was the next step in what we do," said Taylor, who has been a paramedic in Elgin County for 15 years.
"We've raised and donated almost $1 million to support first responders' mental health, but we wanted to create something that could help at the street level. So, we partnered with a tech company to develop an app that provides immediate, anonymous support."
LISTEN | New mobile app offers mental health support for first responders:
First responders can download the app to their phones and get a generic community code from #IVEGOTYOURBACK911. Once connected, users can connect with their internal peer support team or use external resources from Boots on the Ground.
"There's still stigma in our industry around asking for help. Even though things have improved over the past decade, the fear of being judged or seen as weak is still there," said Taylor. "Anonymity allows people to feel comfortable reaching out."
First responders can get connected by emailing Taylor, or calling 519-619-7525.
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