Increase access to family physicians to reduce emergency room overuse and wait times.
Youth discussed how a lack of access to family physicians is having a big impact on the healthcare system overall. Individuals and families without family doctors are needing to use hospitals and emergency rooms as first points of contact, and increasing wait times (among other negative experiences).
Youth also discussed some uncertainties with navigating the Canadian health care system (like understanding resources available, what things have a cost vs. are free, etc.), and how not having a family doctor to ask these questions makes it even more challenging to get the care you need.
There were long conversations about physical health and mental health related actions, and while youth noted the mental health ones are really important – they see more work and effort happening in that space, than in this action. Because of that – they felt it was important enough to make it into the top actions.
Expand public transportation routes to include small towns and suburban neighbourhoods, improving access for underserved areas and connecting to nearby communities.
Increase access to family physicians to reduce emergency room overuse and wait times.
Increase accountability of school staff to address bullying concerns raised by students (like homophobia, racism, ableism, sexism and sexual harassment, etc.)) Establish consistent complaint processes, zero-tolerance policies, and ensure youth know the consequences of such behaviours.
Invest in long-term housing solutions by increasing safe spaces for youth and adults experiencing homelessness, building more affordable homes, and increasing funding for supportive housing services.
Involve youth directly in decisions that affect them. Create more spaces and opportunities for intergenerational discussion between youth and adults/elders. Use these as opportunities to build relationships but also engage in conversation about issues that impact youth and the broader community, and how youth and adults can take meaningful action together. Adults in these spaces should be mindful of how to meaningfully engage with youth, and share power.
Provide more or easier access to resources for immigrant parents restarting their lives in Canada.
