Poppy Desclouds, our Manager of Research and Standards

Paving the way: Introducing our Levels of care quality standard

The journey to our Levels of care (LoC) quality standard began with a shared vision: helping ensure every child, young person and family in Ontario can access high-quality mental health and addictions care, at the right time and in the right place.

Now, after months of collaboration, consultation and co-design, our vision is steps closer to becoming reality.

“This standard was built with and for the people it will impact most,” said Poppy Desclouds, our Manager of Research and Standards. “Service providers, agency leaders and young people, families and caregivers with lived or living expertise shared their insights, challenges and hopes for a stronger, more responsive system.”

Our LoC Quality Standard Advisory Committee (QSAC), made up of agency leaders, service providers and people with lived or living expertise, have helped create a standard to guide agencies in providing the right level of care for their communities. Our public feedback phase played a critical role in ensuring the standard reflects real experiences and challenges.

The Knowledge Institute engaged in an ongoing process of listening, learning and refining the standard to ensure it meets the needs of clients, providers and decision makers across the continuum of care.

“We’re beyond grateful to everyone who shared their insights and experiences to shape this standard. And this is just the beginning. We’re excited to put this standard into action and see how it helps transform care across Ontario,” said Poppy.

View our Levels of care quality standard