What does it concretely involve to collaborate and actively participate in measures aimed at ending a situation that compromises a child's safety or development?

Committing to collaborate and actively participate in implementing measures aimed at ending a situation that compromises a child's safety or development is much more than simply being available to answer calls from the caseworker. Here's what it can entail:

• Cooperate with home visits by the caseworker, including unannounced visits;

• Allow DPJ caseworkers to meet with your children;

• Participate in the meetings scheduled in the intervention plan;

• Follow the recommendations of the Director of Youth Protection (For example: undergo therapy, attend a support group, consult a doctor), to provide access to certain);

• To provide access to certain information or documents, if deemed necessary to assess the child's situation (For example: providing access to their medical file, giving authorization for communications to take place between the intervener and an organization from which the parent receives services;

• Taking initiative, without being forced to do so by the speaker;

• Maintain a respectful and open attitude, even in case of disagreement with the DPJ's position;

  
  

In other words, active participation is when a parent demonstrates that they are implementing concrete and lasting changes to ensure the child's safety and development . The absence of active participation can be interpreted as a lack of willingness to end the situation that compromises the child's safety and development, and can thus represent a significant obstacle to establishing contact between a parent and their child and, ultimately, to the closure of the file by the Direction de la protection de la jeunesse.

After reading this article, if you have any questions or would like to be assisted by our services, please contact us at 438-838-6638 extension 2.

This article was written by Me Lysanne Vermette. Learn more about her practice and the legal services she offers.

FAQ

What does it mean to “collaborate” with DPJ?

It means working with the caseworker to improve your child’s situation by being open, available, and involved in the proposed steps.

What does “actively participating” actually involve?

It means taking concrete actions to address the situation, not just responding to basic requests.

Is answering calls from the caseworker enough?

No. Being reachable is not sufficient. Active participation requires concrete efforts and engagement.

Do I have to accept home visits?

In many cases, yes. Home visits, including unannounced ones, are part of assessing the child’s situation.

Can DPJ meet with my children?

Yes. Caseworkers may meet with children to evaluate their well-being and circumstances.

Do I have to follow all recommendations (therapy, programs, etc.)?

Recommendations are usually part of the measures. Not following them may be seen as a lack of collaboration.

Do I need to share personal information?

In some situations, yes. This may include documents or authorizations needed to assess the child’s situation.

Am I expected to take initiative?

Yes. Active participation includes showing initiative and willingness to make changes, even without being prompted.

What happens if I don’t actively participate?

It may be seen as a lack of willingness to improve the situation and can impact how the case progresses.

Does my attitude matter?

Yes. Being respectful and open, even when you disagree, is an important factor.

Can this affect contact with my child?

Yes. Limited participation can influence decisions about contact and the outcome of the case.

When is a parent considered to be actively participating?

When they demonstrate consistent, concrete, and lasting changes to ensure the child’s safety and development.