Why a Community Safety and Well-Being Plan?

Between 2013-2016 the provincial government led consultations across the province to hear from residents about the way that Ontarians look at service delivery in all sectors. Following the consultations, the province identified that the common goal for Ontarians is to get the services they need, when they need them, in an effective and efficient way. Further, they noted that Police are often called upon to respond to complex situations that are non-criminal in nature as they operate on a 24/7 basis. Many of these situations, such as an individual experiencing a mental health crisis, would be more appropriately managed through a collaborative service delivery model that leverages the strengths of partners in the community. In addition, the province affirmed that all sectors have a role in developing and implementing local community safety and well-being plans. By working collaboratively at the local level to address priority risks and needs of the community through strategic and holistic planning, we will be better prepared to meet current and future expectations of Ontarians.[i]

Community Safety and Well-Being plans are provincially legislated for municipalities in Ontario. The legislation provides direction on the development of the Plan but stresses the importance of municipalities focusing on the issues that are most relevant to them. The Province outlines that risk factors across the social determinants of health should be considered. As such, factors such as poverty, unemployment and underemployment, inadequate housing, mental well-being (including mental health, social isolation, and substance use), gender-based violence, systemic discrimination, racism, and marginalization are barriers that increase the likelihood that communities will experience unsafe and unhealthy situations.

[i] Community Safety and Well-Being Planning Framework: Booklet 3 - A Shared Commitment in Ontario, Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.