Positive Space Assessment Tool

The Positive Space Assessment Tool was designed by OCASI in 2013-2014
to benchmark organizational standards for serving LGBTQ+ newcomers.

Get Started

Positive Space Assessment Tool

Designed for use by immigrant- and refugee-serving agencies in Ontario,
the Tool can be used by organizations to:

Understand clearly what a Positive Space is, involves, and looks like in both theory and practice.

Assess how positive their space really is for LGBTQ+ newcomers and staff, including compliance with Ontario Human Rightsinfo-icon Code laws and best practices in settlement services.

Identify key strengths and target areas for improvement.

Connect to necessary resources that are tailored based on need.

Use assessment results as a catalyst to:

  • Access training
  • Create or revise policies
  • Consult with stakeholders
  • Pilot new initiatives, programs, partnerships, etc.

Form organizational mentoring partnerships through OCASI (currently under development).

  • Appropriately match mentors and partners based on capacity and need
  • Establish clear directions for the work to be done by mentors and partners

Evaluate effectiveness of change initiatives and monitor progress over time.

  • This can be done by re-taking the Assessment Tool at a later date and comparing with previous results

We would like to thank the OCASI Positive Spaces Initiative Advisory Committee who graciously gave their time, energy, wisdom, and encouragement in the development of this tool. Your knowledge, experience, and generosity are what made this possible.