bc_brokenpromises_report.pdf (PDF, 1533MB)
This report follows up on a well publicized case of youth suicide while in the care of BC's child welfare system. Alex was one of many youths staying in a hotel under the watch of a respite worker when he completed suicide. The report identifies major system breakdowns such as not following up on extend family offers to permanently care for Alex as youth, and poor vetting of workers hired to supervise youth staying in hotels. Recommendations are made for kin or customary care arrangements, mental health supports, and contracted agency accountability.