As part of their job requirement, the 51 members of the Caritas Security team must complete an Alberta Justice Staff College Training Program to become Special Constables. This gives them the ability under the Mental Health Act to hold patients who pose a threat to themselves and others until they are seen by a physician. It is a life-saving tool that is just one part of the team's efforts to ensure everyone in the facility feels safe and secure.
"Feeling safe, being treated respectfully, getting a good night's sleep—this is all a part of healing, especially for extremely vulnerable people," says Steve. "It's also important that staff have a safe environment so they can focus on their work."
For Steve, this means being present—walking around and talking to people. "Watching the building on cameras is not enough," he says. "We need to build relationships and rapport with staff, as well as patients. Our job is 99 per cent public relations and one per cent action."
| 
