When a children's aid society receives a referral that indicates that a child may be in need of protection, a protection investigation can be opened.[1] The purpose of an investigation is to protect children who may be at risk of, or are victims of maltreatment.[1] The investigation gathers information about the child and their family to determine whether the child needs protection.[1]
| Protection investigations opened by primary reason for investigation |
About the MeasureWhen a referral to a children's aid society results in an open protection investigation, it may be due to one of the following reasons:
This measure focuses on the primary, or most severe, reason for the investigation. Understanding why investigations are opened can provide a better sense of the reasons children are entering care in a community. Key FindingsIn Guelph-Wellington and Dufferin, Abandonment/Separation is the least common primary reason for an investigation. In 2014 and 2015, Emotional Harm/Exposure to Conflict was the most common primary reason for an investigation in both regions. This data can be found in the downloadable Excel file at the bottom of this page.
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Source: Family & Children's Services of Guelph and Wellington County. Extracted July 2016.
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Source: Dufferin Child and Family Services. Extracted July 2016. LimitationsNot all children who are at risk of, or are victims of abuse, neglect or maltreatment are reported to children's aid societies. There may be more than one reason for an investigation, and/or additional issues may be identified during the investigation. This data focuses on the primary reason for opening the investigation only.
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[1] Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services. (2016). Child protection standards in Ontario. Available at: http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/professionals/childwelfare/protection-standards-2007/childprotectionstandards.aspx