Notes
Future research / gaps identified:
Expand research to better understand the mental health needs of newcomers and identify additional strategies for improving access to mental health support for newcomers.
Key findings:
1) Newcomers experience significant barriers when trying to access mental health support in their first languages, due to substantial gaps in interpreter services.
2) The Language Link pilot project was successful in providing interpreter services to mental health services providers, which helped to reduce client barriers and improve access to mental health support.
3) The project helped to increase the understanding of newcomers’ needs among mental health service providers, and improved their ability to work effectively with interpreters.
4) The project was particularly effective in addressing the needs of newcomers who have experienced domestic violence.
Community organizations: Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)
Integration timeline: not defined
Key populations: newcomers in Calgary, AB
Key recommendations:
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Expand the Language Link program to include more mental health providers.
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Create additional training to help mental health professionals work more effectively with interpreters.
