Family feud

A 16-year-old youth living in a group home complained to our Office that staff at the home were not allowing him to contact certain members of his family because his mother – his legal guardian – did not want him speaking to them.

Issues: Group home; Rights (Good care)

A 16-year-old youth living in a group home complained to our Office that staff at the home were not allowing him to contact certain members of his family because his mother – his legal guardian – did not want him speaking to them. Our Children and Youth Unit reviewed his rights under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, which states that a young person can see and speak with family unless a court decision says otherwise. We also connected him with a lawyer specializing in youth rights, who confirmed that the youth could legally speak to whomever he chooses, as he is no longer in the care of his parents. Group home staff subsequently agreed to facilitate calls between the youth and his family members, and the teen thanked our staff for their assistance.

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