Child Protection Services

Under the Child and Family Services Act, Ontario children’s aid societies protect children from abuse and neglect by caregivers. In serious circumstances when children are at risk of harm in their own home, they can be removed for their own safety. In many situations families can be supported through early intervention.

Children can come into foster care temporarily while problems are being resolved on a voluntary basis for a specific period of time with the agreement of the parents (and the child if he or she is 12 or older).

Some families refer themselves to the Society because they would like support and service for their family. In other cases relatives, friends, teachers, public health nurses or doctors who suspect that a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect, refer families. Sometimes the court may refer them.

When there is concern for the immediate safety of a child in cases of abuse or neglect, the Society is legally required to remove that child from the home with or without parental consent. If a child needs to stay in a place of safety, (away from his/her parents) such as a foster home, the society must bring the matter before the court within five days. The Family court acts as a check and balance and holds the Society accountable for its actions.