A child services agency in Chatham-Kent (CK) is among the first in Ontario to sign an agreement with local school boards to strengthen the mental health system for children and youth.
Linck Child, Youth and Family Supports in Chatham-Kent, formerly CK Children’s Services, said the initiative ensures seamless care pathways between CK schools and community agencies.
The ‘Right Time, Right Care’ framework emphasizes timely, targeted support through immediate crisis intervention, ongoing counselling, or therapeutic services, delivered by educators, mental health professionals, and community partners.
“For families, accessing the right mental health supports as they are identified can make all the difference in outcomes,” said Carol Moore, Director of Mental Health at Linck. “’Right Time, Right Care’ helps streamline pathways while allowing us to work more closely with partners ensuring that children and youth receive access to timely care when they need it most.”
This initiative provides early identification and intervention of mental health concerns while reducing stigma surrounding child and youth mental health, said Linck, adding that it will create a safer, more supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
Work continues to implement the ‘Right Time, Right Care’ framework with French language school boards.
Linck noted that if you're concerned about a child, you can call them anytime at 519-352-0440.
