bc_mh_mcfs.pdf (PDF, 319MB)
This reports examines the trajectory of Joshua, a BC youth who struggled with severe mental health problems since the age of two and ultimately completed suicide at the age of 17. The report examines the roles and involvement of child welfare agencies, educational supports, hospitalization, and community mental health services throughout Joshua's life. In particular it focuses on the breakdowns in communication amongst various involved agencies, workers, and the family, as well as the events that lead Joshua to stay too long in a BC inpatient mental health ward leading up to his suicide. Recommendations for a youth step-down unit and processes for the Ministry of Child and Family Development are made.