Why Policies Matter: Enhancing Child Welfare

Why Policies Matter

Comprehensive Protection for Vulnerable Children

Section 70 of the CFCSA outlines the rights of children in care, primarily focusing on their physical safety and assistance within Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) facilities. However, many children in care have endured traumatic experiences that extend beyond physical harm. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are strongly linked to negative outcomes and an increased risk of future victimization (Cotter, 2021; Downing et al., 2021).

Addressing Multifaceted Needs

The recent amendments aim to broaden the scope of protection by including mental, psycho-social, and cyber safety. This holistic approach ensures that children receive comprehensive support, addressing the full spectrum of their well-being. Early prevention and intervention programs are crucial in building resilience and coping mechanisms, yet they are often sidelined due to budget constraints and time limitations (Tutty, 2020).

Accountability and Transparency

Effective policies hold social workers and care providers accountable, ensuring that vulnerable children are not left in harmful situations. Delays in safety assessments and incomplete evaluations can leave children exposed to further harm (Stanley, 2020). Clear guidelines and robust oversight mechanisms are essential for maintaining trust and ensuring that the system works effectively to protect children.

What Would Happen If We Amended and Advocated for These Policies?

Enhanced Mental and Psycho-Social Support

By amending Section 70 to include mental and psycho-social safety, children in care will receive the necessary support to address their emotional and psychological needs. This includes protection from cyber threats and cyberbullying, which are increasingly prevalent in today's digital age.

Improved Service Support and Funding

Increased financial support for service-providing organizations will ensure that all children are raised in family-type environments with access to essential services. Enhanced care mechanisms within MCFD facilities will redefine safety and provide lifelong support, including culturally sensitive care through partnerships with First Nations communities.

Stronger Prevention Mechanisms

Expanding the capacities of oversight bodies like the Official Representative of Children and Youth (RCY) will enable more effective assessment of mental safety and implementation of preventive measures without unnecessarily removing children from their families.

Better Transition Support for Youth

Redefining the independent living program to offer comprehensive and lifelong support beyond financial assistance will facilitate smoother transitions for youth leaving care. This support is crucial for their success and social integration, reducing the likelihood of future behavioral issues and victimization.

Increased Accountability and Transparency

Advocating for these policy amendments will promote greater accountability within MCFD, ensuring that all children receive the protection and support they need. Enhanced transparency will help identify and address gaps in the current system, leading to more effective and empathetic care.

Who Should Play a Part?

Government and Legislative Bodies

The primary responsibility lies with government officials and legislative bodies to enact and enforce these policy changes. They must allocate adequate funding to support comprehensive care programs and empower oversight bodies to implement preventive measures effectively.

Child Welfare Organizations and Service Providers

Organizations involved in child welfare must advocate for policy changes and implement programs that align with the new standards. Increased funding and resources will enable these organizations to provide better care and support for children in their facilities.

Social Workers and Caregivers

Social workers and caregivers are on the front lines, directly interacting with children and families. Their role is crucial in applying the new tools and guidelines to provide better care and support. Proper training and resources are essential for them to effectively implement the enhanced safety measures.

Community and Advocacy Groups

Community organizations and advocacy groups can amplify the call for policy changes by raising awareness, mobilizing support, and holding authorities accountable. Their collective efforts are vital in driving the momentum needed for legislative amendments.

Educational Institutions and First Nations Communities

Collaborating with educational institutions ensures that children receive holistic support that includes their academic and social development. Partnerships with First Nations communities are crucial for providing culturally appropriate care and respecting the unique needs of Indigenous children.

Families and Youth

Families and youth themselves should be involved in the dialogue, providing firsthand perspectives on what support they need. Empowering them to share their experiences can lead to more effective and empathetic policy formulations.

Amending Section 70 of the CFCSA is a crucial step towards ensuring that children in care receive comprehensive support addressing their physical, mental, psycho-social, and cyber safety needs. These policy changes promise to create safer, more supportive environments, fostering resilience and improving the overall well-being of vulnerable children. Achieving these goals requires a collaborative effort from government bodies, child welfare organizations, social workers, community groups, and the families themselves. Advocacy and proactive measures are essential to break the cycle of trauma and build a future where every child in care is protected and empowered to thrive.

References

• Cotter, A. (2021). Criminal Victimization in Canada, 2019. Statistics Canada. Catalogue no. 85‑002‑X.
• Downing, N. R., Akinlotan, M., & Thornhill, C. W. (2021). The impact of childhood sexual abuse and adverse childhood experiences on adult health-related quality of life. Child Abuse & Neglect, 120, 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105181.
• Lamberink, L. (2020). Child abuse reporting has 'gone quiet' and that's troubling for this Ontario pediatrician. CBC News. Retrieved from CBC News
• Ministry of Children and Family Development. (2021). Children and Youth in Care Policies – Chapter 5 Operational Child Welfare Policy.
• Murphy Battista LLP. (2020). Claims against the Ministry of Children and Family Development. Retrieved from Murphy Battista
• Tutty, M. L., Aubry, D., & Velasquez, L. (2019). The “who do you tell?” child sexual abuse education program: Eight years of monitoring. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 29(1), 2-21.
• World Health Organization. (2020). Global Status Report on Preventing Violence Against Children 2020. Retrieved from UNICEF