World Café event in Red Deer to get newcomers’ perspectives on rural mental health

Jun 7, 2024 | 9:45 AM

What matters most to newcomers when it comes to accessing quality mental health services?

That is the question seeking to be answered through an upcoming Equity, Diversity & Inclusion World Café, happening from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 15 at Red Deer’s Baymont by Wyndham.

The event, which focuses on rural mental health care in general, but from the lens of newcomers, is put on collaboratively by Alberta SPOR SUPPORT Unit’s patient engagement team, based at the University of Calgary, and Red Deer Local Immigration Partnership (RDLIP).

“Mental illness disproportionately affects rural and smaller communities around the world, creating significant barriers to accessing quality mental health services,” says Tiffany Barbosa, provincial community engagement coordinator and World Café Rural Alberta leader.

“In Canada, rural areas face challenges such as inconsistent funding and fragmented care plans, contributing to poorer mental health outcomes.”

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Barbosa adds that by understanding these issues, meaningful change can occur in rural mental health care.

“We are working to include newcomers in conversations regarding mental health as they provide another diverse perspective,” says Dieulita Datus-Hall, program manager, RDLIP.

“We recognize the difficulties in navigating the health care system and accessing resources differs for all residents. We would like to invite all newcomers to attend this event as we continue to focus our efforts on ensuring their voices are part of the conversation.”

The deadline for registration is June 12. You can do so here.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided to all participants. Bus tickets and child-care may be available upon request. Organizers say they will work with prospective participants to minimize any barriers.

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by Josh Hall | @Vancan19

World Café event in Red Deer to get newcomers’ perspectives on rural mental health

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