Youth group in Timmins, Ont., creates QR code to link teens to mental health, social services support

Youth in Timmins, Ont., are now able to connect to a variety of youth support services in one place through the use of a single QR code.

The QR code was developed by a group of youth, aged 13 to 18, through Timmins Youth Connect, as part of the City of Timmins' Community Safety and Well-being Strategy. 

It links users to websites or profiles of 27 partner agencies and organizations so they can find support for a variety of concerns. Community members can access mental health and crisis support, as well as information on education, Indigenous and cultural services, employment, and harm reduction and well-being services.

The QR code initiative was created after teens working with Timmins Youth Connect told city staff there was a gap in awareness of available services and access to them in the community.

"We kept hearing from young people that services were hard to access or that it was confusing and they weren't able to figure out what was available or how to reach it," said Meagan Baranyk, community programs manager for the City of Timmins.

"We asked members of Timmins Youth Connect what we could do now to help improve awareness and drive participation. They came up with an idea for a simple QR code linking to services on one easy-to-access site."

Baranyk said the youth were actively involved in designing the QR code's site layout, section titles and wording, and they gave user feedback throughout the process.

Baranyk's team and Timmins Youth Connect have been spreading the word about the QR code by visiting local schools. She said they're ensuring the code is visible and easy to access by wearing and handing out t-shirts and stickers showcasing the code to young people.

Since the QR code's launch on May 30, it has been scanned by more than 200 users.

"So, we are seeing that the code is being accessed, we see that it's working," said Krista Green, manager of school health, substance use and mental health and harm reduction at Northeastern Public Health.

"We have heard a lot, like, 'I had no idea I could go to this person' or 'I had no idea that I was able to call here and get support right away.' So, it's been really nice to hear that it has been successful that way and that they are using it."

The health unit's Planet Youth Coalition is a partnering agency and worked with Timmins Youth Connect to develop the QR code.

Green said they heard directly from youth about some of the biggest challenges they are facing and used the feedback when developing the QR code.

"Kids are worried about what life looks like after high school. They're worried about their academic futures. They're worried about being good enough or smart enough or have enough money for school. They're worried about food security. They're worried about housing. They're worried about really big things," explained Green.

She said now having a "one-stop-shop" for teens, parents, caregivers, teachers, coaches, and professionals to link directly to services and information is beneficial to helping more young people feel connected and heard.

"I think it's an excellent initiative and I hope to see it grow and continue to be promoted. It's important."