Alberta child welfare: Opportunities for better processes and outcomes

Abstract

Contemporary Western approaches to protecting children and families have come under increasing scrutiny by the broad community, politicians, professionals and service users as a result of perceived system failings. In an environment of unrelenting media attention, policy makers and practitioners have critically reflected on system issues and practice, and placed increased emphasis on delivering better outcomes for children and families. Alberta’s embracing of Outcomes Based Service Delivery reforms is an example of reshaping the ways in which families and children receive assistance to improve their safety and wellbeing. In this article, I outline and critically analyse the complex issues faced in child welfare, and identify some key reform opportunities and strategies that exist to refashion and improve the ways we can protect children and better help families and communities