Child and Youth Advocate releases two investigative reviews involving serious injuries

May 27, 2015

Edmonton…The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate has completed two Investigative Reviews regarding serious injuries and is publicly releasing the results of the reviews as outlined under the Child and Youth Advocate Act. The circumstances for the young people are quite different.

Sixteen-year-old “Sam” sustained a brain injury following a suicide attempt while in government care. As a result, he faces some physical and emotional challenges.

“This is the fourth review by my office involving a young person hurting himself, which is very concerning,” said Del Graff, Provincial Child and Youth Advocate.

Nine-year-old “Bonita” was taken to hospital suffering from septic shock caused by severe, untreated dental abscesses. She has undergone a number of surgeries and has required counselling for the trauma she experienced related to her injury and subsequent medical treatment. Bonita, who is of Aboriginal heritage, was in her parents’ care at the time and her family was receiving services from Child Intervention Services.

“Bonita’s circumstances have illuminated the significant issues of poverty and neglect that many children and families struggle with. I believe that by telling Bonita’s story and acting on the recommendations that are in this report, child-serving systems can and must do better,” said Del Graff.

The intent of an Investigative Review is not to find fault with specific individuals, but to identify and advocate for system improvements that will help enhance the overall safety and well-being of children and young people who are receiving designated services.

A copy of both Investigative Reviews and recommendations are available on our website: http://www.ocya.alberta.ca/adult/publications/investigative-review/.

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is an independent office of the Legislature, representing the rights, interests and viewpoints of children and young people receiving designated government services.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:

Tim Chander
Communications Manager
Office of the Child and Youth Advocate of Alberta
780-638-4064
tim.chander@ocya.alberta.ca

Read the reports “16-Year-Old Sam” and “9-Year-Old Bonita” here.

NT5