Programme qualification des jeunes

The Programme qualification des jeunes (PQJ) [Youth qualification program] supports young people in their transition to independence and adult life. It helps them build a positive and rewarding life plan. The program is based on the development of young people’s agency and works in collaboration with local partners.

The PQJ is designed for young people between the ages of 16 and 25 who:

• are receiving or have received youth protection services;
• want to learn how to live independently;
• would like personalized support adapted to their situation, their needs and their capacities.

In particular, it is intended for the most vulnerable young people who are at risk of marginalization.

The PQJ helps young people integrate into society and make a smooth transition to adulthood.

By participating in the program, young people can:

• develop their social and support network;
• find out what they want to do;
• move toward their goals such as living independently, going back to school, fulfilling a dream or finding a job.

The objectives of the program are as follows:

• encourage young people and those around them to commit to their transition to independence;
• foster community collaboration;
• mobilize available resources to meet young people’s needs.

Depending on age and needs, services can vary:

• Regular follow-up age 16‑19: average duration of three years;
• Follow-up age 17+: duration determined by the young person and the youth worker;
• BRIDGE age 18‑25: short-term support based on needs.

Regardless of the profile chosen, the PQJ supports young people in their journey through three complementary learning components:

This component helps young people take charge of their daily lives and develop their independence. They learn how to:

1. find and keep accommodation or a housing resource that is safe and adapted to their needs;
2. maintain safe housing stability (look for, pay for, see to the upkeep of their accommodation);
3. manage their personal finances (budget, bills, bank cards);
4. develop social skills and abilities that are useful in everyday life;
5. take care of themselves and others (health, hygiene, diet).

This component supports young people in developing and carrying out their plan for the future. It allows them to:

• define or carry out a plan that promotes their fulfilment;
• acquire the knowledge and skills they need to carry out their plan (such as integrating into a job, continuing their studies, going back to school, etc.).

This component helps young people build relationships and surround themselves with people and resources to support them. It aims to:

• teach them how to organize their daily lives between leisure activities and responsibilities;
• help them build relationships of mutual support and trust;
• make them aware of the community resources available and how to make good use of them.

Young people interested in participating in the program can:

• be advised by their youth worker at the CISSS or CIUSSS from the age of 15;
• contact the PQJ team in their region directly to find out more about the services offered and the procedure to follow.

If you have any questions about the PQJ, contact the team responsible for your region.

Certain admission criteria must be met to participate in the PQJ:

• be between 16 and 25 years of age;
• have a plan to live independently (no possibility of returning to the family environment or a very low possibility);
• consent to the support offered and the objectives of the program.