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Nancy Clark, Ph.D, RN is an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing, at the University of Victoria (UVic). Her research focuses on immigrant and refugee mental health and meaningful inclusion of diverse communities in her work. Nancy has published 24 peer reviewed research articles, and 9 book chapters. With a profound dedication to meaningful inclusion and a profound understanding of the complex interplay of social determinants of migrant health, Dr. Clark's journey is as inspiring as her contributions. Dr. Clark was awarded the 2023 Michael Smith Health Research BC award for a 5 year funded program of research for “Promoting integrated mental health care services and supports for refugees”. In addition to this prestige award Dr. Clark has received the Presidents Chair Award at UVic for her community engagement and work with immigrants and refugees.
Professional Passion and Motivation
Dr. Clark's journey into this specialized field began with her extensive experience as a community mental health nurse. Her clinical work exposed her to the profound impacts of social determinants of health, particularly among vulnerable populations facing issues like poverty, displacement, and gender inequities. These experiences fueled her passion for research focused on the mental health of immigrants and refugees, emphasizing the chronic nature of their challenges and the importance of understanding their experiences both before and after migration.
Dr. Clark draws immense inspiration from her collaborations with non-profit organizations and fellow scholars dedicated to resettlement and migration. Her most rewarding experiences stem from working directly with communities and populations. For instance, her recent two-year project with Syrian men explored issues of masculinity and mental health, highlighting the often-overlooked mental health challenges and stigmas within forced migration contexts.
Informing Policy and Practice
Dr. Clark’s research underscores the pivotal role of policy in shaping and guiding practices across various sectors and disciplines, addressing the numerous barriers that immigrants and refugees face. A resent commentary draws on World Health Organization emphasizing global policy on mental health of people experiencing forced migration.
Her findings reveal several critical aspects: Firstly, Dr. Clark emphasizes the effectiveness of various initiatives across Canada and the importance of identifying and replicating successful models. She notes that language barriers present a significant challenge, highlighting the importance of providing gender-sensitive and gender-informed care and services that meet the clients' needs. Recent collaborations with N4 resulted in a policy report, “National Standards for Healthcare Equity: The Case for Provincial Interpretation Services."
Her regional work on policy issues and mitigating access to barriers for newcomers can also be found in The Greater Victoria Local Immigration Partnership and the Refugee Readiness Team of Vancouver Island.Arguing that services must be designed to ensure they are accessible and trusted by the diverse newcomer populations. This tailored approach is crucial as a one-size-fits-all solution is often ineffective. Moreover, Dr. Clark points out the necessity of harnessing technological solutions that are safe and secure, particularly considering the different levels of digital literacy among immigrants. She highlights the role of community navigators and health workers in bridging gaps and fostering collaboration among non-profit organizations, settlement sectors, and academic institutions. This collaborative approach is vital for implementing effective practices and addressing inequities in service delivery.
In terms of policy implementation, Dr. Clark stresses the importance of inclusivity. Policies must consider such factors and initiatives like N4, which offer systematic approaches to accessing resources, can significantly improve service delivery for newcomers. However, it is crucial for those in the settlement sector to understand and integrate these services into mainstream practices.
Envisioning the Future of Refugee and Immigrant Integration
Looking ahead, Dr. Clark envisions a future where the integration of refugees and immigrants in Canada is deeply informed by the principles of truth and reconciliation. She emphasizes the need to address the historical impacts of colonization and build bridges that support Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit communities. Their experiences of resilience can provide valuable insights for policy implementation, helping to reduce disparities and improve overall well-being.
Dr. Clark also highlights the importance of redefining what it means to integrate. Policies should reflect newcomers’ desires to become citizens and fully participate in society, recognizing their contributions and previous experiences. This calls for a tighter collaboration with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure policies dismantle colonial practices and support effective settlement services.
Furthermore, Dr. Clark stresses the importance of aligning immigration policies with the principles of truth and reconciliation. She believes that addressing historical oppression of Indigenous populations will pave the way for more inclusive policies for all communities. This alignment is crucial as Canada continues to increase its immigration numbers, necessitating integrated policies across provinces to handle the influx effectively.
Dr. Clark also notes the need to address political sentiments and ensure policies reflect the nation’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Exploring different models of care that cater to the diverse needs of immigrant populations is essential. Understanding what works based on the diversity and specific characteristics of different groups will help create more effective and inclusive care models.
In advising settlement organizations and government agencies, Dr. Clark underscores the significant role academia plays in informing and improving settlement and health services. However, she acknowledges the challenges posed by academic rules and regulations, particularly around grant funding. Transparent communication about these challenges and opportunities for collaboration is crucial.
Organizations should engage with academics to identify key issues and determine how research can address them. Instead of approaching predefined subjects, it is beneficial to understand the communities’ needs first. Building strong relationships between academia, settlement organizations, and healthcare providers is essential. This includes providing information on how grant funding works and what can realistically be achieved through collaboration.
Moreover, Dr. Clark emphasizes the importance of regular information sharing to bridge the gap between research and practice. Academics possess valuable knowledge that should be disseminated widely to improve services and support systems.
In conclusion, Dr. Nancy Clark’s research provides a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing the integration and support of immigrants and refugees in Canada. Emphasizing the significant role that gender and other structural determinants of mental health for people who experience forced migration. Clark argues that by addressing barriers, leveraging effective practices, and fostering collaboration, policymakers and community organizations can create more inclusive and supportive environments. Dr. Clark’s vision for the future emphasizes aligning policies with the principles of truth and reconciliation, ensuring Canada continues to lead by example in immigrant and refugee mental health care.
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