Inquest into the of death Ashley Smith
Recommendations proposed by the coroner’s counsel and other parties
3. That the development of knowledge concerning personality disorders, and the provision of effective services and treatments, be considered a priority and resourced accordingly by governments and their agencies, including CSC and professional organizations.
5. That a non-prison-like mental health setting (including provision for community based out-patient supports) be available for federally sentenced women with serious mental health issues.
9. That decision-making with respect to management and interventions shall be made by clinicians, in consultation with the woman, rather than by security staff.
10. That staff should be trained and experienced in trauma-informed care.
11. That the proportion of health care staff dedicated to health care roles be significantly HIGHER THAN SECURITY STAFF.
15. That a range of therapeutic interventions and SUPPORTS be made available in such facilities.
21. That federally sentenced women in such facilities must have access to an independentpatient advocate system.
22. That CSC provide mental health services and supports in accordance with the principle that MENTAL HEALTH CARE IS ESSENTIAL HEALTH CARE.
60. That if front-line staff determine that immediate intervention is required to preserve life, there can be no requirement that they seek authorization prior to intervening.
61. That Healthcare staff shall be available to front line staff to answer questions about self-harming behaviour. Healthcare staff shall be available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
74. That non-emergency transfers of mentally ill federally sentenced women shall occur only when it is consistent with the clinical needs of the woman. Transfers of mentally ill women shall not occur for reasons related to constraints within the institution, or challenges related to the management of the woman.
107. The Verdict and Recommendations regarding the Inquest into the Death of Ashley Smith shall be posted in every institution operated by the Correctional Service of Canada, in a place accessible to all staff, within thirty days of the receipt of the verdict and recommendations.