FREDERICTON (GNB) – An engagement process has been launched to help develop a regulatory framework and program design under the new Child and Youth Well-Being Act. In addition to stakeholder engagement sessions, the process will include an online survey and other opportunities for feedback from the public.

“I encourage everyone to share their ideas about how we can further improve the well-being of children and youth through the development of regulations, programs and services,” said Social Development Minister Dorothy Shephard. “Feedback will provide us with valuable information to help us make the best decisions to help New Brunswick’s children.”

As part of the engagement process, the department has released a discussion paper, Child and Youth Well-Being, A New Chapter, Engagement on Phase II: Regulatory Framework and Program Design. The document summarizes the initiatives being used to gather input from the public and stakeholders. It also includes nine themes of discussion, with a series of questions for each:

  • Kinship Care Model
  • Collaborative Approaches
  • Secure Care
  • Early Detection and Intervention
  • Youth and Young Adult Services
  • Multidisciplinary Child Protection
  • Continuum of Care
  • Co-ordinated Restorative Services (Stabilization Services)
  • Legal Framework Review – Rules of Court – Processes

Individual and group engagement sessions will take place during December and January. In addition to the online survey, New Brunswickers may submit briefs summarizing their thoughts and recommendations by emailing [email protected] or by regular mail at: Department of Social Development, Policy and Legislative Affairs Branch, Child and Youth Well-Being Regulations, P.O. Box 6000, Fredericton, N.B., E3B 5H1.

The new stand-alone legislation received royal assent in June, after obtaining unanimous support in the legislative assembly. It is intended to modernize legislation related to children and youth and provide better tools to ensure their protection and well-being. It provides greater consideration of the views and preferences of the child or young person in decision-making. Children and young people will be encouraged to express their views, according to their age and maturity. The new legislation should be officially proclaimed and implemented in the fall of 2023.

“With the combined efforts of New Brunswick’s citizens, including the voices of children, youth and families, and all sectors, we can ensure that supports and services are available to enhance the lives of New Brunswick’s most vulnerable children and youth,” said Shephard.

 

08-12-22