London’s new justice centre was recently unveiled, showcasing critical supports for at-risk young adults such as mental health and addictions services.

The expanded London Justice Centre is located downtown in the Youth Opportunities Unlimited’s (YOU) Joan’s Place. The previous facility offered access to virtual-only court proceedings in a smaller community-based space; whereas this new space has an Ontario Court of Justice courtroom for in-person proceedings.

Other services include technology to support remote testimony, crown attorney offices and dedicated spaces for duty counsel, a Victim/Witness Assistance Program and multiple community partners, including the London Police Service. There is also community space for mental health and addictions supports and multi-sector services that focus on addressing intimate partner violence.

“The community of London proudly welcomes the expansion of the London Justice Centre in YOU’s Joan’s Place where together we can ensure access to the training, employment and housing supports that meaningfully benefit many young adults in the criminal justice system,” said Steve Cordes, YOU’s executive director. “This expansion reflects our shared commitment to supporting individuals navigating the justice system with dignity and respect.”

Over the past five years, the London centre has processed 2,400 cases and connected 100 per cent of the participants to support programs.

The province’s justice centres project, which includes projects in Barrie and Timmins, is one of more than 18 multi-ministry initiatives funded under Ontario’s five-year Guns, Gangs and Violence Reduction Strategy.