The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening employment outcomes across the Muskoka-Kawarthas region by providing greater visibility in how frontline staff can support job seekers experiencing mental health challenges.
Work Well, which will start in April, encourages employment service provider staff throughout the Muskoka-Kawarthas region to participate in a designated suite of mental health information sessions. Designed by CMHA HKPR, the sessions are tailored for frontline staff to build their capacity to support clients more effectively. The sessions focus on using a strengths-based approach and trauma-informed lens as well as coaching on mental health disclosures and workplace accommodations.
“CMHA HKPR recognizes that finding and keeping employment while managing mental health concerns can be challenging. The Work Well initiative provides education and awareness that empower staff and job seekers with an improved understanding of the importance of mental health in the workplace and what to do when mental health interrupts someone’s ability to stay well at work,” said Kim Kennelly, CMHA HKPR Manager of Justice Services and Employment Services. “Alongside information sessions, Mental Health Employment Consultants are available to offer consultation and one-on‑one mental health support to employees and job seekers throughout their journey towards meaningful employment.”
Staff who complete the full series of sessions will receive a digital badge and letter of achievement recognizing their commitment to supporting mental health in employment services.
“Individuals throughout our communities are facing unprecedented challenges that are impacting their mental health,” said Joanne Spicer, Associate Vice President of Student Experience at Fleming College. “Our goal is to foster a better understanding of mental health and illness in the employment services sector in order to further reduce barriers to finding meaningful work. This includes supporting job seekers with tools they can use to navigate the process of searching for and maintaining employment.”
Work Well will run on a two-year cycle, beginning in 2026. Participants will have two years to complete the series with opportunities for ongoing renewal.
