Health Expect. 2025 Apr;28(2):e70208. doi: 10.1111/hex.70208.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: There is increasing interest in youth advisory councils (YACs) within the mental health and addictions (MHA) system; however, little is known about methods to ensure diversity of perspectives on these councils. Diverse perspectives are critical for ensuring that youth MHA organizations are equipped to support youth needs.
METHODS: A youth-led YAC recruitment initiative was developed and implemented at a GTA-based youth MHA navigation service: the Family Navigation Project.
RESULTS: Specifically, this paper highlights the efforts of three youth staff and volunteers who championed a YAC recruitment plan focused on promoting equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI) and accessibility, youth engagement (YE), and lived experience/expertise (LE).
DISCUSSION: This paper is written from the perspective of the youth recruitment team and provides important insights for MHA services interested in ensuring EDI, accessibility, YE and LE on a new or existing YAC, and researchers studying YE in MHA care.
PMID:40025828 | DOI:10.1111/hex.70208
