Victoria - South Island

This program focuses on individual and group skills development; by helping individuals set and achieve personal goals focused on life skills, social supports, community involvement and interdependence. Clients work with staff to determine what they want from the program, and how staff can support them. The program supports and encourages individuals to improve their quality of life through interaction with each other and with the larger community. This often includes building on social skills, leadership skills, symptom management, cultural skills, and managing a healthy lifestyle.

The Bridge Centre meets three times a week at 125 Skinner Street on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM. Assistance can be provided in arranging transportation through HandyDART, or in helping to plan a bus trip. Participants are supported to make their own travel plans.

Types of activities include physical fitness, creative activities, social opportunities, relaxation practices, and skill development. Program participants who stay over the lunch hour are encouraged to bring their own lunch and eat with the other participants.

Referrals are accepted through the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health), psychiatric nurses, family doctors, or case managers.

Eligible participants may also self-refer. Participants must have a mental illness in addition to cognitive impairment.