Formal organizations
A high level of satisfaction with the settlement experience reduces the likelihood that immigrants and refugees will transition to poor health over time (Newbold, 2009). When organizations that provide essential services for newcomers are not able to meet the needs of their clients, this lack of support creates a stressor that can lead to poorer mental health outcomes (Chadwick & Collins, 2015).
Inequities and challenges with accessing health and social services can factor into a poor settlement experience. For example, a lack of awareness of mental health care and services, transportation and mobility issues, lack of linguistically appropriate services and stigma contribute to the underuse of services by immigrant and refugee women (Guruge et al., 2015). Organizations need to counteract and avoid differences in service provision between populations in order to improve equity in the access to and the quality of care for immigrant populations (MHCC, 2016).
Public libraries are an example of a formal organization that provides social support.
Libraries are set up as places to get books, resources and information, and access free internet and computers, which is important for virtual care, online applications and socializing with family and friends; however, this is a simplification of their value and purpose. The public library is an institution that provides an open and safe environment, including for vulnerable populations, to meet and socialize Libraries are friendly, familiar places that foster imagination, creativity, social cohesion and community empowerment (Aabø & Audunson, 2012; Brewster, 2014). People with mental health problems and illnesses can feel calm, comfortable and empowered in libraries through reading and courses (Brewster, 2014). Libraries also often play an important role as a meeting place across cultural, ethnic and social lines (Aabø & Audunson, 2012).
Navigating and finding services
Lack of awareness of available supports or where to access services influences levels of received support (Khanlou et al., 2015). Clients and health care providers can access information about nearby formal support services for new immigrants and refugees from the following sources:
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The Government of Canada hosts a publicly viewable database of support services and agencies for newcomers.
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Kids New to Canada maintains a web page of links to community resources serving immigrant and refugee families.
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The Peel Newcomer Strategy Group (PNSG), in partnership with the Region of Peel, has created interactive maps indicating the location of services across the region. The services available include schools, settlement services, hospitals, faith-based institutions and early years services.