Home security

A 16-year-old complained that staff at his group home weren’t helpful to him after his personal belongings, including a laptop, were stolen or damaged by other youths living in the home.

Issues: Group home; Rights (Good care); Rights (Safety)

A 16-year-old complained that staff at his group home weren’t helpful to him after his personal belongings, including a laptop, were stolen or damaged by other youths living in the home. When we contacted staff at the responsible agency, they confirmed another resident exploited a weakness in the home’s electronic key card system. Although they don’t usually financially compensate young people for damaged items, we asked if they would be flexible in this situation, given the inadequate security of the locks. The agency later confirmed it would replace the youth’s laptop, and its staff would repair the locks in the home.

Learn more about the Children and Youth Unit which answers questions and takes complaints about child protection services.