Recognizing the rights of foster parents
Ministry of Children and Family Development
B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations
VICTORIA, BC – The rights and entitlements of Foster Parents have been clarified and enshrined in a document signed yesterday, October 29th, by the Minister of Children and Family Development and the B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations (BCFFPA).
The Foster Parent Rights document defines the entitlements and expectations of foster parents and recognizes their commitment, skills and contribution to vulnerable children and families in British Columbia.
“Foster parents bridge many worlds in the work they do – they are skilled caregivers, advocates and role models for vulnerable children and youth who often have complex needs,” said Minister of Children and Family Development Mary Polak. “This document reflects the principles and values that exist between the ministry and foster parents, and the years of collaboration, respect and trust that are the foundation of this partnership.
“I am delighted to be a part of recognizing the unique nature of the fostering community, particularly during Foster Family Month.”
The idea for these rights originated with foster parents at the 2006 Annual General Meeting of the B.C. Federation of Foster Parents based on the vital role foster parents play in the services to children and families and the expectations they have as highly-skilled caregivers.
“The federation is very pleased that this project has come to fruition,” said Melanie Filiatrault, president of the BCFFPA. “Foster Parents are an important part of the child welfare system in B.C., and as such deserve honour and recognition for the vital role they play in bettering the lives of children and youth in this province.
“I would like to thank the Board of Directors and specifically Heather Bayes, our vice-president, for helping move this forward.”
Foster care gives children a family setting and a safe, loving, and stable environment when their own parents are not able to look after them. There are almost 3,300 foster families in British Columbia caring for children and youth in communities throughout the province.
The Foster Parent Rights document is on the Ministry of Children and Family Development website at: .
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