10 years later: revisiting the patchwork quilt of child protection in Canada

Abstract

Background: In 2007, a Paediatrics & Child Health article characterized the Canadian academic Child and Youth Protection Programs (CYPPs) depicting the wide variation in clinical services and resources across the country as 'a threadbare patchwork quilt'. This study aimed to expand and update the knowledge gained from that original project a decade later. The aim of this research was to understand the current structure, functioning, and experiences of the existing Canadian CYPPs.

Methods: A mixed-methods design was utilized and all program directors of Canadian CYPPs were invited to participate. An online survey was distributed using REDCap to collect quantitative data on program characteristics. Program directors participated in one-on-one semi-structured telephone interviews to gather qualitative information regarding their program's strengths and needs, resources, as wellas reflections on their experiences working within this evolving field.

Results: In total, 15 of 16 CYPP directors participated in the online survey. CYPPs remained relatively consistent in the variety of allied health care professionals on their team, and have ongoing work in research, education, and advocacy. Recurrent themes that emerged from the qualitative interview data included the strength of the team, comments on stress and wellness, expertise in the field, and desire for additional advocacy.

Conclusion: Current information was gathered on the structure, function, and experiences of Canadian CYPPs. Areas of growth include collaborative practice at the Child and Youth Advocacy Centres and deliberate attention to wellness. Child maltreatment continues to be an important health and social issue and review of the present-day landscape is critical to better inform research, education, and resource planning.

Keywords: Abuse; Child maltreatment; Child protection; Neglect.