Backgrounder - INAC, Alberta and First Nations Join Forces to Improve Child Welfare Services for First Nations Children

Canada’s New Government is entering into a partnership with Alberta and First Nations in Alberta to improve First Nations Child and Family Services program in Alberta using the successful Alberta Response Model.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada’s First Nations Child and Family Services Program

The main objective of the Child and Family Services Program (CFS) is to ensure the safety and well-being of First Nations children on reserve by supporting culturally appropriate prevention and protection services for First Nations children and families. This is done in accordance with the legislation and standards of the province or territory of residence to create a more secure and stable family environment for children on reserve.

Alberta Response Model

The provincial government introduced the Alberta Response Model, a new approach to child welfare service delivery six years ago. It refers to the way services are provided to children and families who come into contact with the child welfare system.

The model ensures:

• Families receive the support and services they need before they reach crisis;
• Community-based services and the child welfare system work together so families receive more appropriate services in a timely manner;
• Children in care benefit from permanent homes sooner by, for example, involving families in planning alternative care options; and
• Services and supports are coordinated in the way that best helps the family.

Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act

The Alberta Response Model also outlined the need to review the Alberta Child Welfare Act to ensure the legislation could fully realize the intent of the model. The review resulted in the development of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, which was proclaimed in November 2004.

The Act ensures families receive the services they need before they reach a crisis, more quickly establishes permanent homes for children in government care, allows increased access to adoption information and strengthens collaboration and sensitivity to Aboriginal and Métis needs.

Since the introduction of the Alberta Response Model and the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, child intervention caseloads have decreased by 22 per cent. In First Nations Child and Family Service agencies without early intervention and prevention services, caseloads have increased by four percent over the same period.

Child Welfare Service Delivery in Alberta

In Alberta, Child and Family Services authorities, funded by the provincial government, provide services to children and families in 10 regions throughout the province. Delegated First Nations Agencies deliver services to families living on reserve. These agencies receive funding from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.