This document summarized the legislative changes introduced in November 2004 under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, which replaced the Child Welfare Act in Alberta. Developed through...
Description
This document summarized the legislative changes introduced in November 2004 under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, which replaced the Child Welfare Act in Alberta. Developed through extensive community consultation, the act emphasized early intervention, family-centred services, and cultural sensitivity, particularly for Aboriginal children. Key changes included updated definitions of neglect and emotional injury, implementation of differential response models, adoption of concurrent planning, shortened permanency timelines, expanded procedural rights for children, and an enhanced role for the Child and Youth Advocate. The act also established licensing requirements for all care facilities and expanded access to adoption records.