Child Protection: Navigation and Advocacy

Is your family involved with Child Protection in Nova Scotia?  Are you feeling confused about the process and need information and support?

In Nova Scotia, the provincial government department responsible for child protection matters is the Department of Opportunities and Social Development, formerly known as the Department of Community Services (DCS).  This agency is sometimes informally referred to as “child welfare”, “children’s aid”, or “child protective services (CPS)”.

The private agency responsible for child protection matters in Mi’kmaw communities is Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services.

As per Family Law Nova Scotia:

• Child Protection FAQ’s | Nova Scotia Family Law

The mandate of child protection in Nova Scotia is to protect children under the age of 19 from abuse and/or neglect, while making every effort to keep families together.

The child protection law in Nova Scotia is called the Children and Family Services Act(CFSA). All social workers working with child welfare agencies and all judges in Nova Scotia must follow the law and regulations of the CFSA in doing their work.

When child protection services are being provided to Indigenous children and families, the federal legislation, An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Children, Youth and Families, will apply.  This will ensure that specific cultural needs will be considered.

Under the Children and Family Services Act, child protection social workers are required to investigate reports of child abuse and neglect.  The purpose of an investigation is to determine if a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being, abused or neglected.  During an investigation the child protection social worker gathers information.  This can include talking to the children, the parents, and other people who may be able to provide information (such as a family doctor, school teacher, or other family members).  This investigation may be completed with the police if there is an indication that a criminal offence has occurred. The child may also be examined by a doctor as part of this investigation.  After the information has been gathered, the agency will make a decision as to whether there is evidence that the child has been, is being, or is at risk of being, abused or neglected.  If the agency concludes that the child has not been abused or neglected and is not at risk of being abused or neglected in the future, services to support the family may be offered and/or the file would be closed.  If it is determined that the child has been abused or neglected, or is at significant risk of being abused or neglected, the agency will open the file to provide ongoing services.  The purpose of these services is to address the issues that are posing a risk of harm to the child and provide the family with supports.  A parent may already be aware of services that could help. The child protection social worker could help in arranging these services, and may also suggest other services, such as counselling, family support services, or substance abuse treatment.