When Defending a Child’s Best Interests Becomes a Risk for a Foster Family

Foster families fear reprisals when they question certain decisions or take a stand to defend what they consider to be in the child’s best interest.

A foster family that speaks out must be heard

For nine years, the family mentioned in the column took in nearly fifty children. They supported young people who had often faced very difficult circumstances, while working with their parents to facilitate, whenever possible, a return to their biological families.

Today, this family can no longer take in children.

According to their account, the non-renewal of their contract is linked to the fact that they opposed certain decisions they deemed contrary to the children’s well-being. She also reports having experienced intimidation, harassment, and threats of retaliation.

This situation must give us pause.

Foster families are on the front lines of the daily lives of the children entrusted to them. They get to know them, develop bonds with them, and witness firsthand their needs, their struggles, and their progress.

When they raise a concern, their voices must be heard and taken seriously. Defending a child’s best interests should never be a source of fear.

Essential Partners in Child Protection

Quebec already faces significant challenges in recruiting new foster families and, above all, in retaining those with several years of experience.

Every family that leaves represents a loss of expertise for the system. But above all, it means one fewer family able to offer stability, safety, and a sense of security to a child in need.

For FFARIQ, foster families must be recognized as true partners in child protection. This relationship must be based on listening, respect, trust, and collaboration—especially when a family raises concerns about a child.

Child protection must be a priority

FFARIQ will continue to speak out on behalf of foster families and denounce situations that undermine their ability to fulfill their role.

Because a strong child welfare system needs foster families who feel supported, respected, and free to speak up when they believe a child’s best interests are at stake.

To read Mylène Moisan’s column, visit our Media section