Reducing Barriers for Youth Access

This guide addresses the barriers that youth face in accessing community services and support, prepared by BUNYAAD Public Affairs and McCreary Centre Society for the Youth-Friendly North Shore initiative. It emphasizes the importance of regularly reviewing organizational practices to enhance service accessibility for youth from diverse backgrounds. The document outlines the 5 A's of Accessible Services: Approachability, Acceptability, Availability and Accommodation, Affordability, and Appropriateness, which are crucial for understanding and improving access. Strategies for enhancing accessibility include co-locating services, reducing waitlists, and engaging youth in the decision-making process. The guide also discusses the significance of positive adult-youth relationships during adolescence, offering communication approaches that foster respect and understanding. Additionally, it provides facilitation guidelines for group discussions aimed at identifying and overcoming barriers, encouraging collaborative action steps to improve youth engagement and service access in the community.