Examining the potential of a coordinated service delivery model in child welfare in Ontario, Canada: Critical role of Black voices

Abstract

Poor outcomes for Black children and youth in the child welfare system in Canada are well documented in existing literature. A lack of service coordination among service providers has been highlighted as one of the barriers faced by children, youth and families receiving child welfare services, specifically from Black communities. However, there is little research on service coordination challenges in child welfare in the Canadian context. This paper examines the challenges and opportunities of coordinated service delivery in Ontario’s child welfare system, with a particular focus on the experiences of Black youth. Methodologically, the study relies on the user-centered design approach and via a series of focus groups seeks input from Black youth with lived experience in the child welfare system to explore service delivery issues and develop potential policy solutions. We identify issues such as service fragmentation, untimely referrals, and pervasive mistrust within the child welfare system. These are further exacerbated by systemic racism and a lack of culturally appropriate services. We conclude that the development of the coordinated service delivery model should begin with trust-building initiatives aimed at increasing Black staff representation in the child welfare system and beyond, enhancing transparency and accountability, and ensuring continued engagement of Black communities in policy design.