Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
MIDDLESEX COUNTY – At its September 23 meeting, Middlesex County Council received a presentation from the London and Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP) outlining the results of two major surveys on newcomer experiences in the region.
Tristan Johnson, Communications Officer for the LMLIP, told councillors that the surveys, conducted at the end of 2024 and into 2025, captured the perspectives of 512 newcomers—387 permanent residents and 125 temporary residents—who had arrived between six months and nine years ago. Respondents represented a wide range of backgrounds, with many from South Asia, East Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Johnson emphasized that “over 60% of permanent residents hold a post-secondary degree or diploma,” showing the highly educated profile of those surveyed.
The survey identified two key challenges: employment and housing. “The two most critical factors for successful settlement are a good job and a safe home, and our data shows that these are also two of the biggest challenges,” Johnson said. On employment, he noted that the “number one barrier is the Canadian experience paradox. You can’t get a job without it, and you can’t get it without a job.” Housing was another pressing concern, with high rental costs ranking as the top barrier for both permanent and temporary residents. “Unaffordable housing is one of the top reasons newcomers say that they would leave Middlesex County,” he added.
Despite these challenges, the data showed positive trends for newcomers in the county compared to those in the City of London. Johnson reported that permanent residents in the county “are more likely to be homeowners, have higher household incomes, know their neighbours and feel a stronger sense of belonging to Canada.” Temporary residents also reflected this trend, reporting higher job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging to their local communities.
At the same time, the survey revealed social integration hurdles. “Temporary residents in Middlesex, for example, reported feeling more isolated and experiencing significantly higher rates of discrimination than those in London,” Johnson explained. Access to services was another difficulty. Residents in the county reported more barriers due to fewer local services, limited hours, and transportation challenges.
Johnson also outlined the LMLIP’s new three-year community plan, developed in consultation with more than 200 community members. “Our priorities directly address the challenges identified in these surveys,” he said. “We are focused on making a more welcoming community to tackle the discrimination newcomers are facing. We are working to improve integration and well-being by better coordinating services to address those access gaps. And central to all of this is strengthening our community partnerships.”
Councillors followed up with questions. Councillor Aina DeViet asked about how results compared over time or against other rural counties. Johnson responded that the survey provided “a snapshot of where things are at the moment,” with data collected over several months, but said he could connect council with researchers for deeper trend analysis.
Councillor Allan Mayhew raised concerns about access to family doctors and the situation of Ukrainian refugees. Johnson acknowledged that health care was a concern addressed through LMLIP’s Health and Well-Being Sub-Council and added that the organization worked closely with local associations and government programs on refugee support.
Director of Human Services and Children’s Services, Joe Winser, expanded on these points. He explained that Middlesex County is working with the Middlesex London Ontario Health Team to address primary care shortages, noting that this issue affects all residents, not just newcomers. On Ukrainian refugees, Winser said the County supports families through the Ontario Works program and helps them transition into the community.
Councillor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson asked about strategies for integration and well-being, particularly given the survey’s findings of both belonging and discrimination. Johnson highlighted the upcoming “I am Middlesex” campaign, modelled on a similar initiative in London, which will share positive stories of immigrants who have settled in the county.
Council received the report for information, with Warden Brian Ropp noting its importance in shaping future policies. The LMLIP presentation underscored both the successes and ongoing challenges facing newcomers, and emphasized the role of community collaboration in ensuring Middlesex County continues to be a place where residents can not only settle, but thrive.
