Who do you call for Investigation or Dispute Resolution support?
Reach out to Program Coordinator: Dianne Thompson
Tel: 778-430-5459
Email:
These issues are usually stressful and can have a devastating effects on foster caregivers. Do not allow any situation to reach a point of crisis before reaching out for support. Call for an Investigation and Resolution Support Worker as soon as possible, they are available in different parts of Vancouver Island.
What is Investigation and Resolution Support?
The purpose of the Investigation and Resolution Support program is to provide support to foster caregivers who are going through the MCFD Investigation and Resolution Process or engaged in a serious disagreement with Ministry staff.
Who are Investigation and Resolution Support Workers?
Investigation and Resolution Support Workers are experienced foster caregivers who have special training and knowledge about the process foster caregivers become involved with when an allegation is made against them or they are in a dispute with the Ministry. They can provide information or answer questions, attend interviews, take notes if requested, and ensure that the foster caregiver requesting their assistance does not go through this process alone.
- Available to listen to your concerns and provide you with information and or suggestions.
- Familiar with foster care policies, all kinds of investigations and the procedures used.
- Committed to helping you work with Ministry staff by providing support, clarifying issues, and ensuring that you get the information you need within the time frames.
- Recognized as credible liaisons between foster caregivers and social workers.
- Sworn to protect your privacy.
Investigation and Resolution Support Workers may be able to assist you in 3 areas:
- When an allegation is made that a child in your care may be abused or neglected.
- When there is a concern about the quality of care a child in your care may be receiving.
- When you are having a disagreement with Ministry staff and need support in resolving it.
What else can an Investigation and Resolution Support Worker do?
- Help you understand what will happen
- Help ensure the investigation or review is fair and conducted with as little disruption to your family as possible
- Help you present the facts and your situation in an investigation
- Provide support to you without judging you
- Help keep lines of communication open between you, the social workers, the investigators and other interested parties
- Tell you about your choices, help that is available, your rights, including the right to appeal
- Support you and your family emotionally
- Work through the process with you to help ensure that foster children continue to be placed in your home if the allegation is unfounded or overturned on appeal.