2014-2015_Annual Report - First Nations of Northern Manitoba

2014 - 2015
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
ANNUAL REPORT
11TH
www.northernauthority.ca
i|Page
THE FIRST NATION AGENCIES OF NORTHERN MANITOBA
Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba 100-­‐701 Thompson Drive Thompson, MB R8N 2A2 Rose McKay, Executive Director Cree Nation Child & Family Caring Agency Box 10130 Opaskwayak, MB R0B 2J0 Fran Sinclair-­‐Dick, Executive Director Island Lake First Nations Family Services General Delivery Garden Hill, MB R0B 0T0 Alfred Wood, Executive Director Kinosao Sipi Minisowin Agency PO Box 640 Norway House, MB R0B 1B0 Clarence Paupanekis, Executive Director Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation FCWC PO Box 451 Nelson House, MB R0B 1A0 Felix Walker, Chief Executive Officer Opaskwayak Cree Nation Child & Family Services PO Box 10550 Opaskwayak, MB R0B 2J0 Ron Ranville, Executive Director Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc. Box 388 Cross Lake, MB R0B 0J0 George Muswaggon, Executive Director First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
i|Page
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Culturally Appropriate Standards (CAS) Working Group Elder
the late AMBROSE WOOD
J. Ambrose Wood was originally born in the community of St. Theresa Point First Nation with only one older brother, Harry Wood in the family. In the early years of his life, Ambrose was taken from his parents to attend residential school and he never returned until he was at a mature age. In the early sixties, Ambrose had relocated with his family to the community of Wasagamack First Nation where the local people elected him to be the first Chief of the community. He remained as a Chief for a span of two years then moved on to do other local and regional consultation work with the community. For more than a decade, Ambrose left home to do other responsibilities with other organizations. He became involved with the department of Indian Affairs to assist and provide consultation work at the community. Ambrose worked with the late Manitoba of Indian Brotherhood Organization, and for many years, Mr. Wood had dedicated his knowledge and experience to help and support the communities of Island Lake. He worked at the Island Lake Tribal Council in Winnipeg in the early 80s in the area of health and social services. In the 1990s, Ambrose went back to Wasagamack where he was elected a councillor and again helped to bring resources into the community. Ambrose had lost his dearly beloved wife almost 20 years ago, leaving him with four children for him to watch over/raise. At the time when Ambrose was with us, Mr. Wood suffered through losses of three of his children in recent years. In 2013, Ambrose became involved with Island Lake First Nation Family Services where he was invited to participate in a regional Elder’s working group under cultural standards. He shared and provided consultation toward CFS service delivery and supported discussions to make changes in child welfare. Often Ambrose would bring information back to his community and share what was discussed at the working group. Ambrose had worked until his passing on June 15, 2015. Ambrose left to mourn his only daughter, Donna Harper, her husband and many grandchildren. Ambrose will be remembered for many years as he was known to many people, respected for his endurance, and he never was afraid to express his views and concerns at meetings and gatherings. Joseph Ambrose Wood April 9, 1943 – June 15, 2015 First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
ii | P a g e
Culturally Appropriate Standards
Elders Committee
Top row: (Late) Ambrose Wood (ILFNFS) and Jennie Wastesicoot (NA); Bottom row: Marie Ballantyne (NCNFCWC), Irene Michel (Awasis), Frances Queskekapow (KSMA), Andrina Blacksmith (Nikan), and Melinda Robinson (CNCFCA). Missing: Flora Young (OCNCFS) First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
iii | P a g e
MISSION STATEMENT
“Supporting and empowering First Nation child and
family services agencies in northern Manitoba to
enhance and enrich family life.”
VISION STATEMENT
“First Nation Elders, parents and extended family
members in northern Manitoba are restoring their
traditional and inherent roles and honouring their
sacred responsibilities to all children.”
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
iv | P a g e
ELDERS COMMITTEE
Elder Irene Michel
Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba
Elder Melinda Robinson
Cree Nation Child & Family Caring
Agency
Elder Ambrose Wood
Island Lake First Nations Family Services
Elder Frances Queskekapow
Kinosao Sipi Minisowin Agency
Elder Marie Ballantyne
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family &
Community Wellness Centre
Elder Flora Young
Opaskwayak Cree Nation Child &
Family Services
Elder Andrina Blacksmith
Nikan Awasisak Agency Inc.
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
v|Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message from the Administrator ......................................................................... 1 Board of Directors ................................................................................................ 2 Message from the Chief Executive Officer ........................................................... 3 Northern Authority Staff ...................................................................................... 5 Financial Report .................................................................................................... 7 Human Resources Report ................................................................................... 11 Quality Assurance Program Update ................................................................... 13 Standards Unit Program Update ........................................................................ 19 Special Projects .................................................................................................. 29 APPENDIX A: Audited Financial Statement ....................................................... 32
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
vi | P a g e
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR
As many of you may know, on November 27, 2014 I was appointed to the position of Administrator for the Northern Authority by Ministerial Order. It is my goal to create the necessary conditions to bring the Northern Authority back under the direction of a Board of Directors in a timely manner. I remain committed to the Northern Authority’s Mission Statement “Supporting and empowering First Nation child and family services agencies in northern Manitoba to enhance and enrich family life”. The challenge for the Northern Authority, as I see, is to maintain the proper level of oversight over the delivery of high quality professional child and family services in a manner consistent with First Nation community’s historical traditions and customs. It is my belief that good governance, sound administrative practices, and working collaboratively with the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) in a respectful and transparent manner is essential to achieving the vision and goals outlined as part of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry Child Welfare Initiative (AJI-­‐CWI). I wish to make clear that it is my intention to continue with the important initiatives currently taking place and to ensure that there is no disruption to services. This includes the need to continue with efforts to strengthen the CFS system in part by developing community-­‐based CFS resources as well as developing culturally appropriate standards. When I began my role as Administrator, I was pleased to see first-­‐hand the high level energy and resources being invested in the development of culturally appropriate standards. I believe that the development of culturally appropriate standards is both necessary and vital to helping the provincial child welfare system better respond to the unique cultural needs of First Nation children, families and communities. It has the potential to give First Nation CFS agencies better tools to help ensure the safety of children in need, while at the same time, empowering First Nation families and communities by recognizing and harnessing their rich knowledge, wisdom, beliefs and customs. It should also help in the effort to create new opportunities for children to remain in their home communities as well as create new opportunities for children (who were removed from their communities) to return to their home community. First Nations leaders are speaking loud and clear on the need to “bring First Nation children home” and I believe that the development of culturally appropriate standards is a very important initiative in helping to achieve this. It is also a very exciting time given current initiatives that are aimed at recognizing and promoting customary care and kinship principles throughout the system. In closing, I would like to acknowledge the management and staff at the Northern Authority for their ongoing dedication and commitment to this organization under difficult and sometimes heart wrenching circumstances. I would also like to acknowledge the individual boards, management and staff of all seven northern CFS agencies for their continued commitment and resolve in delivering child and family services in a manner that is in the best interests of children, families and the communities that we serve. I look forward to the many challenges associated with this new role and affirm that I am committed to discharging my duties in the manner consistent with the Minister’s Order and in the best interests of the Northern Authority. Thank you! Ekosani! Irvin (Issie) D. Frost First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
1|Page
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Duke Beardy (Awasis) Chair Sydney Garrioch (Nikan) Vice-­‐Chair TERM August 8, 2013 – October 6, 2014 Re-­‐Appointment February 26, 2014 – November 27, 2014 Maria Moore (OCNCFS) Secretary / Treasurer Daisy Monias (KSMA) Member Re-­‐Appointment February 26, 2014 – November 27, 2014 Inez Vystrcil-­‐Spence (NCNFCWC) Member Denise Packo (CNCFCA) August 8, 2013 – November 27, 2014 February 26, 2014 – November 27, 2014 Member August 8, 2013 – November 27, 2014 Irvin (Issie) D. Frost, Administrator November 27, 2014 -­‐ Current First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
2|Page
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
On behalf of the First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority), I am pleased to present our 11th Annual Report. Firstly, it is only fitting I make special mention to the Northern Authority Culturally Appropriate Standards Elders Committee. A special acknowledgment to the late Ambrose Wood who passed on June 15, 2015. We will always remember his knowledge, wisdom and uncanny humour during our gatherings. As we continue to pursue our mission and vision, we are confident that the strategic direction envisioned by our Elders and past Board members remains a constant within the Northern Authority. This is further reinforced by the support of our current Administrator who has demonstrated his commitment to this vision. The contents of this report will show the hard work and dedication of the Northern Authority staff in carrying out the strategic direction. As such, we are engaged in many exciting new initiatives with the addition of the Special Projects Unit. This has given us an opportunity to focus on key files that needed much attention while maintaining our statutory duties of an Authority. This Unit will supplement the key work activities of Human Resources, Finance, Standards, and Quality Assurance. The strong leadership in each of these program units will provide the Northern Authority with opportunities to execute our plans and to ensure that our investments in people, systems and service delivery offer the best possible service to the people we serve. You will note from the highlights in this report that we continue to improve the capacity within the organization and the agencies under our mandate. The highlights of the past year include, but are not limited to the following: •
Accessed special project funding from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) to support the development of Culturally Appropriate Standards; •
Provide funding to agencies for “Resource Development ” to support the costs around licensing; •
Provide funding to agencies in IT Support for agency operations; •
Submitted a comprehensive funding request to Manitoba Family Services in September 2014 in order to address deficiencies in authority and agency funding; •
The ongoing work directed at the restoration of culturally appropriate standards in the placement of children through a series of community consultation; •
Initiated meetings with agency Executive Directors to begin a conversation in constructing facilities in the communities; •
Began the process to monitor and track Family Enhancement activities within agencies; •
Consultation with the agency Executive Directors around the development of a Northern Placement Desk; •
Designated Intake Agency (DIA) Review; •
Quality Assurance review of northern CFS agencies; •
Work on the recommendations for the “The Legacy of Phoenix Sinclair: Achieving the Best for All Our Children; First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
3|P a g e
•
•
•
•
Quality Assurance review of the Northern Authority; Hotel reduction strategy / resource development; Work on the development of Customary Care: and Began the process of developing a communication strategy to enhance communications at all levels of the organization. We continue to implement a focused approach on the development of Culturally Appropriate Standards given that over eighty percent of children in care in Manitoba are Indigenous. As such, we continue to advocate for system change to better meet the needs of the communities we serve. I am further delighted to see that the leadership of Department of Family Services in taking action to move this forward with extensive consultation with the four authorities around the development of Customary Care and other key initiatives. A lot of good work is under way to support this initiative through a collective effort. Therefore, I am excited in the coming year we will make further progress through strategic partnerships with all stakeholders enabled by our collective and collaborative efforts through the various tables we engage. In conclusion, we made considerable progress in 2014/2015, but there is still a lot of work yet to be done to maximize our potential. Once again, I wish to thank our employees and agencies for their dedicated efforts and perseverance in their collective efforts in continuing to ensure the safety of children by strengthening and supporting families and communities. Ekosi, Ron Monias Chief Executive Officer First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
4|Page
FIRST NATIONS OF NORTHERN MANITOBA
CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES AUTHORITY STAFF
Executive & Policy Unit
Ron Monias Cindy Ramsay Ron Fidler Standards Unit
Alice Bignell Charity Martin Theresa Henderson Linda Dettanikkeaze-­‐Patterson Candace Donaldson Mary Werba Dolores Highway Deborah Chornaby-­‐Sabourin Karen McKay Chief Executive Officer Executive Assistant Community Relations Specialist Standards Manager Standards Supervisor Case Management Specialist Case Management Specialist Foster Care Recruitment Coordinator FASD/Resource Specialist Intake Coordinator FASD/Resource Specialist Administrative Assistant Quality Assurance Unit
Shirlene Asham Terri Sinclair Alfred Muswagon Colleen Robinson Bonnie Mayham Finance Unit
Bryan Hart Bethany Ettawacappo Darlene Courchene Heather Mowatt Human Resources Unit
Lorraine Desmarais Amanda Hamelin Special Projects
Bruce Unfried Brenda Watt Quality Assurance Manager Quality Assurance Coordinator Quality Assurance Coordinator Education and Training Coordinator Administrative Assistant Chief Financial Officer Financial Controller Special Rates Coordinator Finance/Administrative Clerk Human Resource Manager Receptionist Special Projects Coordinator Culturally Appropriate Standards Coordinator The Northern Authority would like to acknowledge the following individuals who were employed at the Northern Authority for part of 2014-­‐2015 fiscal year: Celina McLellan (Administrative Assistant) Jennie Wastesicoot (Senior Policy Analyst) Monica Genaille (Administrative Assistant) Faron Whitequill (Special Rates Officer) Arlene Morriseau (Custodian) First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
5|Page
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
6|P a g e
FINANCIAL REPORT
BACKGROUND
Funding for First Nation CFS services in Manitoba continues to be a shared responsibility between the federal and provincial governments. Northern First Nation CFS agencies receive provincial and federal funding each year as follows: Federal Funding •
•
Provincial Funding •
Aboriginal Affairs & Northern Development Canada (AANDC) Provides operating funding directly to agencies for on-­‐reserve operations; and Provides child maintenance funding directly to agencies for children in care that are under federal jurisdiction. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Provides Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) funding directly to agencies. Province of Manitoba Provides operating funding indirectly to agencies for off-­‐reserve operations (the province flows these funds through the Northern Authority who then transfers these funds to the agencies); and Provides child maintenance funding directly to agencies for children in care that are under provincial jurisdiction. In 2014-­‐2015, Canada provided approximately two thirds of all operational funding directly to agencies. In contrast to the seven agencies, the Northern Authority receives all of its operational funding from the province. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
7|Page
PROGRAM UPDATE
OVERVIEW OF THE NORTHERN AUTHORITY FINANCE UNIT The Finance Unit is responsible for ensuring efficient allocation and accountability of resources within the organization as well as throughout the northern First Nation CFS region. In addition to core financial management functions, the Finance Unit also oversees the Northern Authority’s office leases and information technology systems and initiatives. The Finance Unit is also responsible for reviewing special rate requests related to child maintenance for each of the seven agencies. The Finance Unit consists of the following four positions: • Chief Financial Officer (Bryan Hart): responsible for the overall financial management of the organization including overseeing the organization’s accounting system, budget development and implementation process, internal reporting, managing the year-­‐end audit process as well as overseeing financial arrangements with agencies • Financial Controller (Bethany Ettawacappo): responsible for the day to day administration of the organization’s accounting system in addition to the group benefits program and pension plan • Finance/Administrative Clerk (Heather Mowatt): responsible for accounts payable, payroll and general office administrative duties • Special Rates Coordinator (Darlene Courchene): responsible for reviewing agency child maintenance special rate requests as well as providing special rates training and mentorship to agencies KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Key highlights for 2014-­‐2015 included the following: • Accessed $250,000 in special project funding from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) to support the development of culturally appropriate standards($175,000 of which was allocated to agencies to support community consultations) • Provided $185,000 in “Resource Development Funds” to agencies to support the costs in relation to foster home/place of safety (POS) home studies as part of compliance with foster home licensing standards as well as costs in relation to developing community-­‐based culturally appropriate resources/placements • Provided a total of $336,000 in “IT Support” funding and $76,206 in “IT Residual” funding to support agency operations • Submitted a comprehensive funding request to Manitoba Family Services in September 2014 in order to address deficiencies in authority and agency funding • Collaborated with the other three CFS authorities in developing a written response to Manitoba Family Services’ proposed contribution agreement template and proposed new financial reporting requirements. • Participated in the Manitoba First Nation CFS Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) meetings First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
8|P a g e
• Initiated the process of developing a new SharePoint-­‐based database for the organization. Specific highlights related to special rates included the following: • Received and reviewed a total of 2,142 special rate requests in 2014-­‐2015 as follows: Agency
Fiscal Year
Awasis
CNCFCA
ILFNFS
KSMA
Nikan
NCNFCWC
OCNCFS
224
577
291
757
127
109
57
TOTAL
2142
• Facilitated 10 special rates training sessions in 2014-­‐2015 involving 6/7 agencies (138 participants in total) as follows: (Note: this training is provided on an as request basis): Agency
20122013
20132014
20142015
Awasis
CNCFCA
ILFNFS
KSMA
Nikan
NCNFCWC
OCNCFS
12
1
6
5
7
16
5
0
15
17
34
52
0
0
11
20
40
33
0
34
0
20152016
(5
mos.)
0
33
28
28
20
0
0
TOTAL
52
118
138
109
TOTAL
23
69
91
100
79
50
5
417
• In March 2015, the Northern Authority implemented an enhanced two-­‐day training format for special rates which includes a plan to deliver this training to each agency twice per year (once in the north for the agency’s northern staff and once in Winnipeg for the agency’s Winnipeg staff) • Provided one-­‐on-­‐one mentorship/training to agency finance staff on an ad hoc basis as needed/requested • Resolved numerous foster parent complaints related to child maintenance as received by the Northern Authority through the organization’s formal intake system • New Child and Family Services Maintenance Funding Guidelines released by Manitoba Family Services in December 2014 (Northern Authority coordinated six separate training sessions between June 24, 2015 and August 19th, 2015 which included Winnipeg (x2), Thompson (x2), The Pas, and Garden Hill) • The Northern Authority continues to identify measures to reduce unnecessary paperwork (e.g. the Northern Authority’s September 28th, 2013 Directive remains in effect stating “agencies shall no longer be required to include expiry dates in any new special rates approval letters excluding Level V and emergency placements”) • Continued efforts to enhance communication between CFS agencies, third party service providers and other stakeholders in relation to resolving issues related to payment of services • Provided extensive support to an agency (over six month period) in reconciling provincial child maintenance billings • Continued efforts in advocating for “parity” with respect to the province’s move towards a standardized rate structure (i.e. the need to ensure that rates recognize the true costs related to northern and remote locations) First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
9|Page
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
In 2014-­‐2015, the Northern Authority received just under $25.3 million from the Province of Manitoba of which $22.5 million was transferred to agencies. In addition, the Northern Authority secured $250,000 in special project funding from AANDC and allocated $175,000 of these funds to agencies. The Northern Authority spent $2.85 million to support its own internal operations. The following pie chart provides a summary of expenditures. Allocation of Revenues (2014-2015)
Northern Authority Operating Expenses (2014-2015)
(Page 32 – Appendix A: Financial Audited Statement attached)
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
10 | P a g e
HUMAN RESOURCES REPORT
BACKGROUND
The Human Resources Unit was established as a separate program within the Northern Authority in August of 2009. Previously the Northern Authority had maintained a designated human resource position to support human resource activities. As the Northern Authority grew in staff complement and program responsibility, a greater need was identified and the Board of Directors committed to establishing a Human Resources Unit intended to support both the Northern Authority and the seven mandated agencies. OVERVIEW
Based on the human resource needs of the organization, the Human Resources Generalist position was reclassified to Human Resources Manager in September 2014. The Human Resources Manager has supervisory responsibilities for the positions of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Receptionist. The Human Resources Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all functions relating to human resources activities within the Northern Authority including: • Staffing, classification and labour relations; • Human resource planning, training and development • Performance management and employee counselling • Develop, implement and evaluate human resource policies and procedures in accordance with applicable legislation and standards • Provides professional HR advice to management and staff of the Northern Authority • Provides ongoing coordination, expertise, leadership and mentorship in the area of human resources to the HR professionals with the seven mandated agencies The Human Resources Manager Team is an active participant on the Northern Authority’s Executive Management Team, Northern Authority Board’s Human Resource Committee, Co-­‐Chair of Northern Authority’s Workplace Safety and Health Committee, Employee Benefits Committee, SharePoint Committee and the Northern Authority’s Agency Human Resources Representatives Committee. In order to support the ongoing development of human resources the Human Resources Manager is also an active member of the Human Resources Management Association of Manitoba (HRMAM) and attends the Canadian Aboriginal Human Resource Management Association’s (CAHRMA) annual conference. UPDATE
The Northern Authority’s Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Committee consist of 4-­‐5 employees. The Human Resources Manager is Co-­‐Chair and represents management on the committee. In addition to Safe Committee Basics training offered by SAFE Work Manitoba all committee members attended First Aid / CPR training for recertification. Quarterly meetings are held as per the Manitoba Health and Safety Act to ensure regulation requirements are met. Two members trained in Completing Building Inspections conducted an inspection of the workplace and after review by the WSH Committee forwarded it’s findings to senior management. Random fire drills are completed quarterly and all new staff is advised of First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
11 | P a g e
emergency evacuation procedures as part of the orientation process for all new employees. The Human Resource Manager is responsible for coordinating the quarterly meetings with agency human resource professionals. Creating the agenda for each meeting is a collaborative effort based on the Northern Authority maintaining hiring practices and workforce qualification standards at the agency level and the human resources related areas requested by the committee representatives. An example of presentations by subject matter experts include; clearance checks (criminal record, child abuse registry, prior contact checks), CURAM and navigating provincial salary scales. Another valuable component of the meetings is the opportunity to network with fellow human resource professionals to share similar challenges, successful initiatives, support and resources. As per the Manitoba Ombudsman website: The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) is an information rights law that gives an individual a legal right of access to records held by Manitoba public bodies, subject to specific and limited exceptions. The act also requires that public bodies protect the privacy of an individual's personal information existing in records held by public bodies. FIPPA came into force on May 4, 1998 and replaced The Freedom of Information Act From April 1, 2014 to March 30, 2015 the Northern Authority received 19 FIPPA requests for information. All 19 FIPPA requests were completed and closed. Recruitment efforts in 2014-­‐2015 included two permanent positions; Case Management Specialist (Standards Unit), Administrative Assistant (Quality Assurance Unit) and four term positions; FASD / Resource Development Specialist, Special Projects Coordinator, Culturally Appropriate Standards Coordinator and Receptionist. The recruitment process includes advertising on the Amik and Northern Authority websites along with postings sent via email / fax to the Northern Authority’s seven agencies. A key role of human resources is critical to ensuring acknowledgement of any organization’s most valuable asset – its employees. In the past year the Northern Authority has implemented an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees. Employee engagement is also conducted through bi-­‐monthly staff meetings, acknowledgement of employee birthdays, an employee led summer gathering, prizes for costumes on Halloween and a Christmas party for staff at Celebrations Dinner Theatre. It is important to note that human resources is much more than hiring and firing. It is also about developing and retaining a dedicated and talented team. The Human Resources Manager is responsible for the coordination and compilation of all incoming FIPPA requests for information to the Northern Authority and its seven mandated agencies when received from the Access and Privacy Coordinator at the Child Protection Branch. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
12 | P a g e
QUALITY ASSURANCE
PROGRAM UPDATE
BACKGROUND
The Northern Authority established a Quality Assurance (QA) Unit in 2009; the team consisted of one QA Manager, two QA Coordinators and one QA Administrative Assistant. This team was tasked with the development of a quality assurance framework for child and family services. The framework included four components: service delivery, human resources, governance and finance. Three quality assurance areas have been developed: service delivery, human resources and governance. To date, all financial reviews have been conducted by external finance firms. One of the important developments to the quality assurance framework has been the ‘find and fix” approach which has been carried out within the agency review process. This approach provides the agency and staff with a quick response to findings which allows the agency to address the findings immediately. The QA Unit provides the agency with a completed ‘Find and Fix Form” that outlines the area(s) that requires agency responses and the agency is provided with a time line to address the findings(s). This approach is different than previous QA reviews in that the agency do not have to wait for months for the final report to address the findings.
PURPOSE
The Northern Authority is responsible for ensuring its agencies provide child and family services and follow the practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation, regulations and standards. The Northern Authority acknowledges that the delivery of child and family services programs to First Nations people must occur in a manner which respects their unique status, as well as their cultural and linguistic heritage (this is consistent with the Memorandum of Understanding with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak). LOCATION AND STAFFING OF THE PROGRAM The Quality Assurance Unit is located at the Northern Authority sub-­‐office in Winnipeg with the following staff: • Shirlene Asham, Quality Assurance Manager • Terri Sinclair, Quality Assurance Coordinator • Alfred Muswagon, Quality Assurance Coordinator • Colleen Robinson, Education and Training Coordinator • Bonnie Mayham, Administrative Assistant AGENCY QUALITY ASSURANCE STAFFING • five Agencies have one staff person assigned QA responsibilities • two agencies have one senior manager tasked with the QA activities PROGRAM ACTIVITIES 2014 – 2015 The past fiscal year the QA Unit has been involved in the following activities: • Quality Aassurance review of northern CFS agencies • Work on recommendations from “The Legacy of Phoenix Sinclair: Achieving the Best for All Our Children” • Quality assurance review of the Northern Authority • Development of forms/tools for internal agency quality assurance reviews First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
13 | P a g e
• Draft of Quality Assurance Guideline Manual • Special Investigations Recommendations • Development of training strategy DESIGNATED INTAKE AGENCY (DIA) REVIEW WORKING GROUP This is a working group established through the Office of the Child and Family Services Standing Committee. The purpose of this review is to assess the extent to which the current models for providing intake and related services in Manitoba’s child and family services system are appropriate given the trend in: • Service demand; • The expressed needs of children, youth, and families within each area; and • The characteristics of communities being served. Two of the seven northern agencies that the Northern Authority works with have a DIA program. These are: • Cree Nation Child and Family Caring Agency; and • Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre. The Province of Manitoba is in the process of conducting an evaluation of all DIA’s in Manitoba. Northern Authority DIA representative will be meeting with the Northern Authority DIA’s to for their input into the provincial DIA review. The Northern Authority DIA representative has met with the NCNFCWC DIA to conduct interviews with staff to gather their input for the evaluation of all the provincial designated agencies. In addition to the above, part of the DIA review includes researching the following five key purpose statements: • Describe staffing capacity, funding level and how services are organized in each DIA; • Describe the changes that have occurred over the course of the past three years in the demand for services being provided by each DIA; • Describe to what extent DIAs are using consistent criteria for making case decisions at intake; • Describe the unique challenges of providing intake in each area served by a DIA; and • Describe the model for how after hours is delivered (current, not over past three years). The working group includes a representative from each of the following organizations: • Northern Authority; • Southern Authority; • Metis Authority; • General Authority; and • Manitoba Family Services. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
14 | P a g e
SPECIAL INVESTIGATION REPORTS
(SIR) FROM THE OFFICE OF THE
CHILREN’S ADVOCATE (OCA)
Under subsection 8.2.3(1) of The Child and Family Services Act, the Office of the Children's Advocate (OCA) is required to review and conduct Special Investigation Reviews (SIR) on services provided by mandated agencies and any circumstances surrounding the death that relate to the standards or quality of the care and services. A review of child deaths occur when a child has died, who was in care of an agency (or the child’s whose family had received services from an agency) within one year prior to the death. Under Standards 8.2.3(2), the purpose of the review is to identify ways in which the programs and services under review may be improved to enhance the safety and well-­‐being of children/youth and to reduce the likelihood of a death in similar circumstances. According to the “Protocol for the Review of Draft SIR Jointly by the OCA and the Authorities”, the Northern Authority, the agency involved, and the OCA will meet prior to the final of a SIR report. This allows the Authority to discuss and/or provide further information on the content, findings and any draft SIR recommendations with its agencies. Further, the Northern Authority and its agencies can address areas where recommendations would be helpful in improving the quality of services to children and families. The OCA completes the SIR draft report which includes findings and/or recommendations and shares it with the Northern Authority and the agency. The final version of the SIR is then provided to the Northern Authority and the agency. The ynit continues to follow up on the recommendation(s) that arise from the SIR reports that are directed to its agencies and/or the Northern Authority. The QA Unit reviews the agency responses that are received to ensure that the responses demonstrate that the recommendation(s) have been successfully implemented. A formal response in writing is then provided to the Manitoba Ombudsman as required for their review and input on the progress of the implementation of the SIR recommendations. Copies of these formal responses are provided to the OCA and the Child Protection Branch (CPB). The Northern Authority receives the SIR with findings which may or may not contain recommendations. In 2011, the OCA began conducting reviews of cases that involved child deaths as a result of prematurity, birth complications or medically fragile. INTERNAL AGENCY REVEIWS The Quality Assurance Unit developed an internal agency review template and a guideline to assist agencies. An agency can also develop their own specific document incorporating the requirements. The completion of internal agency reviews can provide agencies: • An opportunity for agencies to conduct and complete a review of their programs and/or services • An opportunity for agencies to include traditional/cultural community caring First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
15 | P a g e
practices when supporting families when there is a loss of a child. • Development of quality improvement activities and/or agency initiatives. • Development of agency’s own findings and/or recommendations. MULTIPLES WORKING GROUP The Northern Authority receives and follows up on child death recommendations from Section 4 reports and Special Investigation Review reports by the Office of the Children’s Advocate that are directed to more than one Agency and/or Authority. These types of recommendations are referred as “multiples” or “multiple recommendations”. services system as a whole. Additionally for recommendations where it is warranted, each authority could be providing an individual response to its actions or progress toward the completion of the recommendation. For instance, one authority having a youth engagement strategy over another, but its agencies may have implemented their own.
SIR Statistics for 2014/15: Total SIR Reports
Total
Recommendations
Total Multiples
Recommendations
7 26 1 The Multiples Working Group (MWG) was established through the Office of the Child and Family Services Standing Committee (OCFSSC). The purpose of MWG is to share and respond to child death recommendations directed to: •
The CPB and two or more authorities •
Family services system •
Two or more authorities •
A single agency, authority and/or the CPB that may have implications or interest for multiple parties in the child and family services system The membership of the Multiples Working Group is comprised of the Coordinator of the OCFSSC, a representative from each of the four CFS authorities and the Child Protection Branch. The MWG works together to address the multiple recommendations for a formal response to the Manitoba Ombudsman, OCA, and the Child Protection Branch (in case of an SIR) or to the Northern Authority or Director who called the review (Section 4). The MWG can also receive recommendations if it has applicability to the child and family First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
16 | P a g e
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
COORDINATOR
BACKGROUND The Education and Training Coordinator is a member of the Northern Joint Training Team (NJTT) and the Joint Training Team (JTT). The NJTT is comprised of one representative of each northern CFS agency. The NJTT is comprised of the human resource staff of the agencies. This team meets quarterly to plan and discuss training needs at the agency level. The JTT is comprised of a Training and Education Coordinator from each of the four authorities and a representative from the Child Protection Branch. The JTT meets monthly to work on joint training initiatives and on recommendations of child death reviews. The JTT reports to the Standing Committee and is responsible for establishing and maintaining training initiatives to develop a qualified, culturally competent workforce. The major functions of the Education and Training Coordinator is to work collaboratively; with the NJTT and the JTT: which includes developing, coordinating, implementing and evaluating training activities for staff and foster families in the child services system. In addition, the JTT is responsible for assisting in the development and evaluation of education and training curricula. The community and cultural context are vital considerations when developing and delivering skill and knowledge development opportunities. The Northern Authority’s priority in all areas of program delivery and development is to deliver culturally appropriate training and services where possible. Formerly housed in the Northern Authority’s Thompson office, as of December 2014, the Education and Training Coordinator position is now part of the Quality Assurance Unit at the Northern Authority’s Winnipeg office. The decision to move this position to Winnipeg was made after consulting with the agencies. The reasons for location change are that agencies wanted a more central training location as well agencies requested training to occur within their communities. Training is expected to take place in a range of locations such as: Thompson, The Pas, Island Lake and Winnipeg. The training will be more of a mobile unit thereby saving cost for agencies and providing training to a larger volume of staff. THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING COORDINATOR PROGRAM UPDATE The Education and Training Coordinator’s goal is to continue with the vision of developing a professional, qualified, culturally relevant agency staff teams with sensitivity to the needs of families and communities. The focus is to continue to develop education and training activities based on the priorities and needs identified by the CFS system, as well as the recommendations of external reviews. The following is currently in development: • Parental Substance Misuse • Supervisory Skills Training • Effects of Residential Schools on Families involved with CFS • Mental Health First Aide Instructor Training • Lateral Violence The Education and Training Coordinator is working on prioritizing the OCA recommendations that pertain to training that will be incorporated into the development of the Training Calendar and will continue to First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
17 | P a g e
research, audit, and evaluate other training to ensure they can be delivered in a way that can benefit agencies. SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES There are two committees the Education and Training Coordinator is involved in: Joint Training Team and the Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy Committee. Key training sessions offered: - Structured Decision Making (SDM) assessment tools - Preparing Youth for Successful Adulthood: PRIDE - Making Sense of Trauma - Team Abuse Investigations Training - Street Gangs and Drug Awareness - Resource Training and Appeals Process - Intimate Partner Violence/Domestic Abuse - PHIA/FIPPA training for Northern Authority Staff - Attachment and FASD - Foster home licensing process; and POS and appeals process - ASIST Training - Case Worker Core Training - CFSA training (The Pas) - Child Abuse/Forensic Interview Training/ Investigating Child Abuse (Winnipeg) - Domestic Violence (Winnipeg) - First Aid/CPR Training - Making Sense of Trauma, (The Pas, Winnipeg, Brandon) - Sexual Exploitation Absent/Missing Children (The Pas) currently being revised into a two day training format - Sexual Exploitation (Section 52 CFS) (Winnipeg) - Supervisor Core Training - Supervisory Core Training (SC1 & SC2) Island Lake - Youth in Care Transitioning into Independent Living (Winnipeg) - Worker’s Safety & Communication Strategies - Special Rates Training The Education and Training Coordinator attended/participated in the following: • 2014 Northern Agencies Summit: Bringing Our Children Home • Brief Intervention Training: Training of Trainers • Structured Analysis Family Evaluation: SAFE Home Study Assessment training • Presented at Awasis agency foster parents conference: “Children’s Right to Quality Care” • Culturally Appropriate Standards and Elder’s Gathering (October 2014) • Building Bridges presentation (as part of JTT training activities) • WRAP Around Process (“Creating a Community for All”) First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
18 | P a g e
STANDARDS UNIT PROGRAM
UPDATE
BACKGROUND
The Standards Unit is responsible for all intakes, referrals, case management, foster care, resource development, FASD, age of majority and other projects initiated by the Northern Authority. The core programs are deliverable in accordance to provincial standards, The Child and Family Services Act and The Child and Family Services Authorities Act. STANDARDS MANAGER
Alice Bignell was the Standards Manager until March 2015 when Charity Martin assumed the status of Acting Standards Manager. The Standards Manager supervises and oversees the daily function and operation of the core program and ensures concerns, complaints, or other issues are addressed. The Standards Manager works closely with agencies, other authorities, Office of the Children’s Advocate, and the Child Protection Branch. The Standards Manager is also part of the Executive Management Team and other committees/working groups that are specifically related to the position.
INTAKE COORDINATOR
Dolores Highway is the Intake Coordinator for the Northern Authority which is an integral part of the Northern Authority and the first point of contact. The Intake Coordinator provides consultation and expert advice, assists in identifying outstanding child risks and concerns, and ensures intakes are followed up in a timely manner. CASE MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS
Theresa Henderson & Linda Dettanikkeaze-­‐
Patterson are the Case Management Specialists and provide expert support and assistance to agencies regarding issues related to case management. They are each assigned agencies to oversee the case management core component. Theresa works with Awasis, KSMA, OCNCFS & Nikan Awasisak. While Linda works with CNCFCA, ILFNFS & NCNFCWC. FOSTER CARE COORDINATOR
Candace Donaldson is responsible for reviewing and following up on Section 50(2) Support Beyond Termination Requests prior to final approval by management, responding to issues related to foster care including: inquiries, complaints and recruitment. Additional responsibilities include coordinating Youth in Care Tuition Waiver applications with participating colleges and universities who offer current and former youth in care tuition waivers, and acting as the Northern Authority representative on the Keith Cooper Scholarship Committee and Alternative Care Sub-­‐
Committee. INTERIM FASD/RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
SPECIALIST
Deborah Chornoby-­‐Sabourin is tasked with creating collaborative work plans with agencies toward the development of regionally and culturally relevant FASD and placement resources. This work is supported through participation in various provincial committees and working groups as well as the tracking of agency-­‐based statistics and placement issues. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
19 | P a g e
HOTEL REDUCTION TEAM (HRT)
Charity Martin was part of the Hotel Reduction Team until March 2015. Deborah Chornoby-­‐
Sabourin has since been reassigned from the Northern Authority to the Child Protection Branch (CPB) as part of the HRT. She is part of the HRT comprised of staff from each authority and the CPB which was established in June 2014. Phase One of the team’s work has focused on reducing reliance on hotel placements through working collaboratively with agencies and Winnipeg Child and Family Services Emergency Placement Resources Program (EPR) to help agencies secure placement plans for children and youth in EPR when required. In addition, the team has been working collaboratively with agencies, authorities, EPR, government and external service providers to develop shared emergency and long term placement resources to help meet the placement resource needs of children and youth. Phase Two of the team’s work will include the creation of a long-­‐term resource development plan to address the continuum of care needs of child and family service agencies across the province. ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Karen McKay is the Administrative Assistant for the Standards Unit and also covers reception and assists all Northern Authority management and staff when requested. Karen participates in the planning of conferences, summits and other Northern Authority events. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
20 | P a g e
the Standards Unit to ensure follow up has occurred. PROGRAM UPDATE
DESIGNATED INTAKE AGENCIES (DIA) The Northern Authority oversees three DIAs: Cree Nation Child and Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA) located in The Pas, Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre (NCNFCWC), located in Thompson, and Kinosao Sipi Minisowin Agency (KSMA) located in Norway House Cree Nation. The DIA’s provide 24/7 service to their respective geographic regions. 2014/15 Fiscal Year Intakes re: Agencies/Collaterals
CNCFCA
19%
Awasis
22%
Collaterals
15%
OCNCFS
5%
ILFNFS
14%
CNCFCA, 302
ILFNFS, 232
KSMA, 206
Nikan
4%
NCNFCWC
8%
KSMA, 206
13%
NCNFCWC, 123
Nikan, 65
OCNCFS, 89
Collaterals, 237
INTAKE PROCESS The first point of contact is the intake system at the Northern Authority. Intakes/referrals are received via email, phone calls, faxes or walk-­‐
ins, and all complaints, concerns, information and inquiries are recorded and assessed, opened and assigned to the appropriate departments for follow up. The intake system tracks and monitors communications from sources of referrals, agencies, the Child Protection Branch, and other external collaterals. Monthly intake reviews are held by Awasis, 349
CASE MANAGEMENT CFS agencies provide a wide range of services in accordance to The Child and Family Services Act regulations and standards. •
Child Death Notifications – Child death notifications received at the Northern Authority from the agency Executive Director are followed up by Case Management Specialists. Serious Injury to a Child in Care applies to both children in care and non-­‐care. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
21 | P a g e
Northern Authority ensures that agencies respond to any child safety concerns) •
Child Abuse Committee -­‐ role, function, membership, abuse registry and regulations are outlined in The Child and Family Services Act •
Repatriation is a process where the community re-­‐connects the bond between the children, family and the community (Northern Authority assists agencies who are involved with family reunifications and require financial assistance). EDUCATION AND CHILD ABUSE REPORTING PROTOCOLS The Provincial Advisory Committee on Child Abuse (PACCA) working sub-­‐committees had just completed a project in education and child abuse. The Educational Protocol was developed and implemented on January 2014 and replaces the 2002 protocol. The roll-­‐out of the protocol included information sessions for child and family services agencies and different organizations that are affected by the new changes. •
Authority Determination Protocol (ADP) and Authority of Service (AoS) transfer requests are received at the Northern Authority and followed up by case management •
Transfer of Guardianship/Permanent Ward may include internal/external agency or external authority transfers •
Abuse investigations are intakes received at the Northern Authority for agency follow up (the safety of the child or children is paramount and the REPORTING ON CHILD PROTECTION AND CHILD ABUSE – Handbook and Protocols for Manitoba Service Providers is a mandatory child abuse handbook developed by the province and PACCA. It is revised handbook with provincial guidelines on legislated requirements regarding reporting a child in need of protection, including child abuse. The guidelines serve as a basic summary and legal reference to help service providers carry out their responsibilities to protect children through child abuse identification and reporting. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
22 | P a g e
STRUCTURED DECISION MAKING CFS agencies in Manitoba utilize a Structured Decision Making (SDM) approach for assessment purposes. SDM tools are evidence based, have been researched extensively, and are designed to aid workers in making key decisions during critical points in the life of a case. These tools are required on every open case so it is imperative that staff be provided with training to fully understand the applications of the tool and what to do with information they generate. SDM is divided into four parts and utilized in child protection, family services, family enhancement, intake, and any other services that require assessment of child safety and risk. Northern agencies have participated on the training process and have identified trainers for each agency. DIAs utilize these tools on a daily basis. SERVICES TO FAMILIES The goal is to strengthen, preserve and support the family unit with different streams of services: 1. Protection Family Service -­‐ families identified as high risk and intervention is required to ensure child safety. 2. Voluntary Place Agreements or Voluntary Family Service-­‐ families who require family support and assistance from the agency on a voluntary basis. 3. Expectant parent service -­‐ young, unmarried expectant mothers under the age of eighteen years who require support and assistance from the agency. 4. Family Enhancement (FE) -­‐ early preventative/intervention non-­‐
intrusive model that originates from the Differential Response Model. Agencies work with families to prevent their children coming into care. Northern agencies have developed their own Family Enhancement units that include the FE Coordinator and FE workers. SERVICES TO CHILDREN IN CARE The goal is to provide the best service to children in care and their families who are involved with child and family services on a voluntary, short or long term basis. Children in care with special needs require appropriate referrals to various outside resources and or specialized services and may require further extension of care beyond age of majority until 21 years old. Referrals to adult services are necessary to continue receiving ongoing supports through Adult Supportive Living Program, provincial special needs program, and/or Community Adult Living. Case Management Specialists work in collaboration with agencies by attending systems meetings with different collaterals or facilities. The Northern Authority ensures that follow up is completed by the mandated agencies when a child is reported to be potentially at risk. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
23 | P a g e
FOSTER CARE Foster care is part of the Standards Unit. Main duties include advising agencies on provincial standards relating to foster care including but not limited to: resource development and management, licensing and licensing appeals; foster home placements; the removal of foster children; responding to foster parent complaints; and foster home license variance requests. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
24 | P a g e
HOTEL PLACEMENTS During 2014-­‐2015 a total of 65 children were placed in hotels approved by the Northern Authority on an emergency basis. In general, children required hotel placements due to their complex needs or they were part of a large sibling group that could not be accommodated within any existing facility or foster home. A number of these children were placed in hotels on more than one occasion for a total of 134 “stays” during the fiscal year. The following charts depict the ages and numbers of children in hotel placements during 2014-­‐2015: Age at Discharge From
Placement
3%
12%
< 2 YRS, (2)
20%
2-6YRS, (13)
14%
7-12 YRS (9)
51%
13-17YRS,
(33)
Hotel placements were utilized by northern agencies within the following regions and for the identified age categories: HOTEL APPROVALS BY REGION
AGE
Region
Under 2
2-6
7-12
13-17
18 and over
Winnipeg
100%
81%
54%
33%
79%
Thompson
none
13%
18%
4%
13%
The Pas / Opaskwayak
none
6%
28%
63%
8%
FOSTER PARENT APPEALS Under provincial legislation, the Northern Authority is responsible for reviewing agency decisions to remove a child from a foster home when a foster home appeal is filed. During the 2014 – 2015 fiscal year, the Northern Authority responded to a total of 11 foster home appeals. In five cases, the Northern Authority upheld the agency decision to remove the children from the home, three were resolved through the Alternative Dispute Resolution process (ADR), one child was reunified with the parents, one child did not want to return to the foster home and one foster parent withdrew their appeal. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
25 | P a g e
Foster Home Appeals
April 2014 - March 2015
Upheld, 5
46%
Resolved
(ADR), 3
9%
9%
9%
27%
Withdrew, 1
AGE OF MAJORITY – SUPPORT BEYOND TERMINATION OF GUARDIANSHIP The Northern Authority, as per Section 50(2) of The Child and Family Services Act, is responsible for the review and approval of an extension of care request from an agency. The purpose of the extension of care is to ensure that the youth has an opportunity to successfully transition to an appropriate adult services program, complete his/her educational diploma or degree and/or complete the process of developing independent living skills. To be eligible for a support beyond termination of guardianship, the youth must agree to the extension of care and must be a permanent ward before he/she has reached the age of majority. A permanent ward is any individual who was in care under a Permanent Order (PO) or a Voluntary Surrender of Guardianship (VSG). Youth who are in care under any other legal status are not eligible to receive an extension of care. As of March 31, 2015, there were 123 former permanent wards on an extension of care (72 of which were provincially funded and the remaining 52 were funded by Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada). EOCs as of Mar 31
2015
Awasis (35)
Fed
Prov
19
16
CNCFCA (24)
8
16
ILFNFS (5)
3
2
KSMA (16)
8
8
Nikan (25)
6
19
NCNFCWC (6)
3
3
OCNCFS (14)
6
8
Total
53
72
OCNCFS (14)
NCNFCWC (6)
Nikan (25)
KSMA (16)
ILFNFS (5)
Fed
Prov
CNCFCA (24)
Awasis (35)
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
26 | P a g e
KEITH COOPER SCHOLARSHIP The Keith Cooper Scholarship fund was created in 2002 to commemorate the late Keith Cooper (educator and former Chief Executive Officer of Winnipeg Child and Family Services). Funding (up to $7,500.00) is drawn from the Gilroy/Acheson account with the Winnipeg Foundation. The review panel consists of one representative from each of the four authorities and a member from VOICES: Manitoba’s Youth in Care Network. The responsibility for chairing the Keith Cooper Scholarship committee is shared, on a rotational basis, between the four CFS authorities. To be eligible for the scholarship the individual must currently be in the care of a Manitoba CFS agency or must have formally been in care for more than one year. YOUTH IN CARE TUITION WAIVERS There are seven post-­‐secondary institutions throughout Manitoba that are providing current and former youth in care an opportunity to further their education by providing a tuition waiver (bursary or tuition grant). Currently, the University of Winnipeg, Red River College, Brandon University, Assiniboine Community College, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology, the Université de Saint-­‐Boniface and the University of Manitoba all provide an opportunity to break down the barriers for those youth and former youth in care who strive to achieve a post-­‐secondary education. In March 2015, the University of Manitoba hosted an information session, which was attended by approximately 150 people. The event was coordinated by representatives from each of the four CFS authorities and a representative from each of the above listed post-­‐secondary institutions. Northern agencies are encouraged to explore this opportunity on behalf of the youth who are currently in the care of their agency. Former children in care who are interested in exploring this opportunity are encouraged to contact the post-­‐secondary institution that they are interested in attending and/or the Northern Authority for more information. CFSIS COMPLIANCE A Child and Family Services Information System (CFSIS) working group was formed which is comprised of a representative from the Northern Authority and one or more representatives from each of the seven agencies mandated by the Northern Authority. The purpose of the working group is to address barriers to being CFSIS compliant. In June 2015 the province acknowledged the significant progress that was made towards full CFSA compliance. CÚRAM PROJECT Cúram is the electronic case management tool selected to replace CFSIS and the Intake Module. Cúram is a commercial software package built for social service case management and was selected during the 2008 Information Matters project as the best match for Manitoba’s child and family services system. UPDATE The scoping phase of the Curam project took place from October 2014 to May 2015. A project team made up of representatives from the CFS authorities, Manitoba Family Services and Business Transformation and Technology worked to define the size of the Cúram for Child Welfare Project and how it will meet the needs of Manitoba’s child and family services system. Scoping describes looking at current and future casework, supervision, management, financial, quality assurance and other practices and First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
27 | P a g e
procedures and compares them to the capabilities of Cúram. The objective is to understand the work necessary to adapt Cúram to Manitoba. It will also identify processes that could be changed to improve service delivery and create the best possible fit and match with the capabilities of Cúram. The scoping phase was an opportunity for staff to raise questions and concerns and to provide input. Cúram demonstrations also took place at all authorities to give staff an opportunity to see how Curam worked and to ask questions (called Proof of Concept). Reports have been submitted to the Steering Committee for review and consideration for continuing onto the next stage of the project (design phase). ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE MANAGEMENT (OCM) MNP LLP was selected by the province to conduct change management activities and officially began on April 20, 2015. They have met with the Curam project team on several occasions and have presented a work plan to the team. They have sent out a survey and have begun focus group meetings with authorities and agencies. CURRENT COMMITTEE AND WORKING GROUPS The Standards Unit is involved with the following working groups and committees: 1. Provincial Advisory Committee on Child Abuse (PACCA) 2. Child Abuse Committee working group (CAC) 3. Inter-­‐Authority working group (IASWG) 4. Alternate Care Sub-­‐Committee 5. EPR working group – hotel reduction strategy 6. Resource development working group 7. Complex Needs Placement Protocol 8. MB Coalition on Alcohol & Pregnancy 9. ADP Sub-­‐Committee 10. Child Health Women’ Health Child & Family Services working group 11. CURAM working group 12. Tuition Waivers, Keith Cooper Scholarship 13. In house committees What happens between phases? • Continue information sharing to authorities and meetings with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) • Possible OCM activities with the authorities and agencies are: - Connectivity - Organizational change management - Engagement with agencies - Parallel projects - Launch design phase - Project team activities First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
28 | P a g e
SPECIAL PROJECTS UNIT
consultation sessions (February – April), meetings with key community, agency personnel and Elders (January) OVERVIEW The Northern Authority established a Special Projects Unit in May 2015. The unit consists of a Special Projects Manager, a Coordinator, a Policy Analyst, a Community Relations Specialist and an Administrative Assistant. The position of the Community Relations Specialist and the Policy Analyst position is located at the Northern Authority’s head office in Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN). •
Completed an analysis of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) document “Bringing our Children Home” and provided a written response to the recommendations (networking sessions have been initiated with the new AMC First Nations Family Advocate to assess the potential outcomes of the recommendations) •
Initiated consultations with agency Executive Directors with the goal of conducting needs surveys to construct facilities in the communities (contact has been made with each agency and a planning document has been prepared to map out activities to construct/renovate facilities for children and youth) •
Began the process to monitor and track family enhancement activities being practiced by the agencies •
Consulted with key agency personnel to measure the efficacy of a Northern Placement Desk (this issue has been under discussion at the Northern Authority). From these previous initiatives, the key issues identified were: - Insufficient number of foster homes in northern Manitoba results in children moving to the south to acquire quality care and services - The need for specialized foster home recruitment (level 3, 4, and 5 beds) and retention - There is limited training provisions/opportunities for foster parents to ensure quality service and retention - The need for culturally appropriate placements, foster homes and residential It should be noted that the Special Projects Manager and the Culturally Appropriate Standards Coordinator began work on key assignments in January 2015. The Special Projects Coordinator is a member of the Executive Management Team of the Northern Authority and unit members maintain regular consultation and collaborative sessions with all staff. There have also been linkages established with agencies to ensure agency advice, input and feedback. The various work activities assigned to the unit have been challenging and rewarding. The support and encouragement from staff at all levels of the organization has been positive. Every effort will be made to continue to build on these partnerships. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES Since May of 2015, the Special Projects Unit has been involved in a wide array of activities. These tasks have included: • Completion of the ongoing work directed at the restoration of culturally appropriate standards in the placement of children (this task was identified by the previous Board as a key component of the Strategic Plan) •
The work over the past several months was highlighted by rigorous community First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
29 | P a g e
facilities that will meet the child’s needs In September 2014, Northern Authority proposed an approach that required a consensus from all seven agencies (focusing on all of the identified concerns). The Northern Placement Desk can improve the monitoring and management of homes, as opposed to the current system that does not track children who are moving between communities and urban settings. The agencies can also form partnerships with external sources for funding purposes and for the development of their own placement resources. The work must begin to address the outstanding issues and the need for our own Northern Placement Desk and not relying solely on the current provincial desk that does not address the needs of First Nations children and families. agendas which were well attended and the feedback from the participants on the content was positive. The three day gathering heard from a variety of presenters, including elected leadership, Board members, Elders, the White Horse Drum Group, community members, agencies and invited guests. In 2012-­‐2013, Board of Directors of the Northern Authority identified the development of culturally appropriate standards as the top priority for the organization. Over a two year period the Board established a collaborative framework with the seven agencies and key partners to develop the standards and recommended a rigorous consultation strategy with all communities. There is still a need to reach some degree of consensus on this matter as it remains unfinished business. A Senior Policy Analyst, Jennie Wastesicoot, was tasked to take the lead on work to develop the standards framework. This assignment led to the development of an Elders Council, an Technical Working Group and a plan to provide status reports on the this project at the annual gatherings and special meetings. The Special Projects Unit recommended a process to implement a draft internal and external communication policy to engage with communities, service providers, and First Nation Chiefs and Councils. This is a high priority task given the need for greater transparency and accountability. A Unity Document was created that included the ongoing commitment of the key stakeholders in the quest to achieve standard that reflect First Nations culture, heritage and tradition. The gathering provided the time and place to celebrate the successes of this long term project. REPORT ON 2014 ALL AGENCIES GATHERING “BRINGING OUR CHILDREN HOME” SEPTEMBER 30, OCTOBER 1 & 2, 2014 The overarching theme of the 3rd Annual All Agencies Gathering was focused on the development and implementation of culturally appropriate standards. The planning committee for the gathering used this theme to develop wide ranging daily Presentations by David Blacksmith of the Pimichikimak Cree Nation and Chief Wayne Christian of the Spallachem First Nation (BC) offered personal and valuable insights into the impact of culture, tradition and spirituality in First Nations communities. Chief Christian helped create the first community control of child welfare legislation in Canada. Additional topics of interest at the gathering included governance, relationship building, and First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
30 | P a g e
commentary on the re-­‐structuring of the current child and family services system, the traditional role of women, traditional parenting and an examination of the current socio-­‐economic conditions in First Nations communities. There was information provided on the intergenerational impacts of the residential school experience and the 60’s scoop and the Dene Experience. Cultural identity and the links to jurisdiction and self government also emerged as a recurring thread through the presentations. creative use of Elders in the programming and a Sharing Circle Camp. Information was also provided on youth conferences, loss and grieving, summer youth camp, cultural teachings, youth gashion show, movie nights, father wellness groups and women’s teachings. Some closing comments captured some of the key elements of the gathering: • “You aren’t in their lives to change them, you are there to help make their lives better.” Elder Stella Neff: The third day of the gathering was structured for the family enhancement staff of the northern agencies to provide some commentary on a variety of exciting projects which are now available to children and families in their home communities. •
The Family Enhancement Program (FEP) is a short term intervention program to assist and support the family to focus on safety issues and become linked to services in the community. The core services are family centered and child focused. This early intervention can help prevent the family’s situation from deteriorating to a point wherein children become in need of protection. Reference was made to a continuum of family centered activities including, but not limited to, summer and winter cultural camps, a Domestic Violence Workshop in the school for students, “We need to reconstruct our own roads in defining our own life. We are parents first. We have to find and help the children through language and identity using elders and grandparents to develop the concrete community culture and history.” Chief Wayne Christian of Spallachem First Nation, B.C. First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
31 | P a g e
APPENDIX A
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority
Financial Statements
March 31, 2015
MNP
First Nations of Northern
Manitoba Child & Family
Services Authority
Head Office
Box 10460 Opaskwayak Cree Nation Opaskwayak, MB R0B 2J0 Telephone: (204) 623-­‐4472 Fax: (204) 623-­‐4517 Winnipeg Sub-Office
2nd Floor -­‐ 383 Provencher Blvd. Winnipeg, MB R2H 0G8 Telephone: (204) 942-­‐1842 Fax: (204) 942-­‐1858 Toll Free: 1-866-512-1842
www.northernauthority.ca
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority – 11th Annual Report
32 | P a g e