Where we started

The important role that schools play in mental health promotion and prevention is reflected in our resources as far back as 2009, but it was the collaborative vision set out in our co-developed 2022 paper, Right time, right care: Strengthening Ontario’s mental health, substance use and addictions system of care for children and young people that caught the attention of the Ministry of Education. They used the resource as the foundation for a 2024 policy, working closely with the Ministry of Health to set out expectations for school boards and community-based mental health and addictions care organizations to jointly develop plans and strategies to ensure that children and young people receive the right level of care in the right setting. As an implementation partner, we have since facilitated consultations to identify tools and resources needed to make the RTRC vision a reality in Ontario communities.

Where we are now

RTRC is now understood as the vision and model through which coordinated mental health, substance use health and addictions care occurs within the education and child and youth mental health and addictions sectors. Our implementation coaches are working alongside our partners to engage with school boards and community-based agencies to prepare them to implement RTRC and ensure that children, young people and families have access to care that best suit their need(s).

Where we are headed

Implementation is not straightforward. The RTRC implementation process requires time and long-term commitment. Ongoing work with school boards and community-based agencies will guide implementation processes and improve collaboration between school and community-based mental health services.