Notes
Key recommendations
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More information regarding settlement agencies, such as who can qualify for settlement services, as well as verification of legitimacy
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Increase centralization of services in one location, and condense services into a pamphlet/booklet and assign these to newcomer organization
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Provide realistic information about what to expect on arrival with regard to career prospects.
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Provide help in networking with employers
Key populations
Newcomers in general
Key findings
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Many newcomers struggle with employment after immigration to Canada, despite being highly skilled (2/3 of participants had a university degree) resulting in higher stress levels. For those who are employed, many were not able to utilize their educational background
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Many participants’ income is below the poverty line
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The pandemic exacerbated financial difficulties present by newcomers, due to lack of employment, and being disqualified from government benefits
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Settlement services are very helpful during the first months after arriving in Canada, but are very spread out, hindering access
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Service usage, stress levels and experiences of inclusion are determined by gender
Gaps identified
Unclear how immigrants decide to access settlement services
Limited study on the mental health disparities among immigrant subgroups (economic & family class immigrants, refugees)
Integration timeline
First 10 years