Cowichan Valley

This outreach team works with individuals who have experienced a recent opioid overdose, or are at high risk for overdose, and are not connected to a case management or substance use team. The team consists of Island Health Registered Nurses, Outreach Clinicians, Mental Health Workers and Umbrella Society Peer Outreach Workers.

SURF offers the following:

• Attempt first contact within 48hrs of referral
• System navigation and referrals to appropriate services
• Support with accessing Opioid Agonist Therapy
• Overdose prevention education and distribution of harm reduction supplies
• Medical support and access to primary care
• Connect to long-term community supports/services

Referral Process: Referrals are generated by the RJH and VGH Emergency Department as well as BC Emergency Health Services following an overdose. We are also able to accept referrals from other sources for individuals following an overdose or who are at high risk of overdose. Call or email to request a referral form. Please ensure that the individual is aware of the referral and has provided consent

SURF Outreach Team is unable to provide long-term support but has the capacity to offer support for up to 3 months.