A brief overview of child intervention services in Alberta.

AuthorBaretta, Amanda

Posted By: Amanda Baretta

The protection of children through intervention services in Alberta is governed by the Child, Youth, and Family Enhancement ("the Act"). Pursuant to the Act, any intervention must be done in a manner that minimally disrupts the child while preserving the family unit, in so far as possible.

The involvement of Child and Family Services ("the Director") begins with a report. In accordance with Section 4 of the Act "any person who has reasonable and probable grounds to believe that a child is in need of intervention must report." Such belief may derive from instances of:

  1. child abandonment;

  2. where the guardian is unable or unwilling to provide the necessities of life (including poverty related concerns, such as homelessness or inadequate meals) or medical needs;

  3. where the guardian is unable or unwilling to adequately supervise the child;

  4. where the guardian is unable or unwilling to protect the child from physical injury or sexual abuse; or

  5. where there is substantial risk that the child will be physically injured or sexually abused by the guardian.

    Although there is no action against reasonable reports, failure to report is an offence. The identity of the reporter is kept confidential.

    The Director has a duty to investigate all reports made on reasonable and probable grounds. Upon investigating a report, there are three options:

  6. where no concerns are noted, the file will be closed;

  7. where concerns are noted, the guardian may enter into an agreement for services; and

  8. where concerns are noted and an agreement is not possible, the Director may make an application and may apprehend the child.

    Agreements with the Director

    If, upon investigation, it is determined that the child is in need of intervention AND the child's needs can be adequately protected while in the guardian's care due to services provided, the guardian may enter into a Family Enhancement Agreement ("FEAG") for a specified period of time. Under a FEAG, the Director works with the guardian to complete certain tasks. Should the guardian require more time to complete these tasks, the FEAG can be renewed for a further specified period. Should the Director take the position, upon successful completion of the terms, that the child is no longer in need of intervention, the file would then be closed. However, should further concerns arise, the Director may take more intrusive measures, as discussed below.

    Where it is determined that the child is in need...

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