The initiative pairs a trained peer-support worker with a mental health professional, who can be deployed to help a person or family facing mental health distress.

Ejaz Choudry died after he was shot by Peel Regional Police. His family, who has been calling for a public inquiry into his death, have said language barriers played a role in the events that led to his death.

Peel Regional Police said emergency crews were called to an apartment building on Morningstar Drive, near Goreway Drive, on Saturday to respond to a man in crisis who had not been taking his medication.