The SIGN Walk-In Counselling Clinic evaluation : improving access to mental health services in rural Saskatchewan

Abstract

This report examines how the implementation of the Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours (SIGN) Walk-In Counselling Clinic (WICC) has impacted the rural area and community of Yorkton, SK in addressing mental health concerns. The SIGN WICC has been in operation since 2016 and was designed to reduce barriers and stigma associated with accessing mental health services through a no-cost, single session approach. This document provides information important to improving access to mental health care in rural Saskatchewan communities which was gathered through an evaluation conducted from September 2019 to April 2020. The information collected for this report demonstrates that the SIGN Walk-In Counselling Clinic is having a positive impact and meeting the needs of clients in addressing mental health concerns in rural communities. The information collected demonstrates that 65% of clients only require a single session, 71% of clients indicated they would not have accessed mental health services if the walk-in clinic was not available, and 100% of clients interviewed were able to maintain their mental health status for at least three-months following their walk-in counselling session. Using an Appreciative Inquiry framework, interviews with SIGN Walk-In Counselling Clinic service providers and service users were completed to gain an understanding of the experiences of providing and receiving mental health care through a walk-in clinic along with exploring how mental health is experienced within rural communities. Data analysis confirmed the need for more innovative and flexible mental health services, specifically in rural communities, and seven recommendations were identified for consideration by the Agency to ensure they continue to play a meaningful role in the continuum of care in providing mental health support in rural communities.