IT MATTERS TO ME: INFORMING YOUTH SERVICES DELIVERY 22 lends for an approach that supports this vulnerable population (Campo & Commerford, 2016). Researchers have recommended an integrated approach as the best model to supporting government-connected young people (Hilliard, 2011). Ashton (2017) explained that there is a need for the mental health system to provide targeted interventions that address more vulnerable populations. Currently, young people with care experience do not have catered mental health services that address their complex trauma and adverse childhood experiences (Ziemann, 2019). Adverse childhood experiences comprise a framework that predicts adult risk factors based on early childhood experiences. Researchers have identified young people with adverse care experiences as at risk based on their adverse childhood experiences score, which have contributed to poor health outcomes due to historic trauma (Felitti et al., 1998). Forty to 60% of young people had at least one psychiatric disorder combined with issues of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, which is a rate double that of non-foster cared youth (Ziemann, 2019). Ziemann (2019) suggested (a) a coordinated continuum of care system that supports young people with complex issues past the age of 19; and (b) implementing non-government, community-based programing that supports young people with long-term positive adult mentorship that encourages a sense of belonging. In my ELP, I have encouraged a process that welcomed all community members, over the age of 19, to inform the design of a YISH for Surrey, yet intentionally recruited young people with former government care experience to ensure that their voice was present in the design. Evidence has determined that there is a crisis amongst the health of youth. There is a call for action for a system-wide change that supports young people to experience increased health outcomes. This shift in service delivery moves from a traditional siloed approach to a new design
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