Is there a fee for programs offered by WAYS?
Will I be part of the planning for my child?
What qualifications do staff have, and what type of care does your agency provide?
If my child is going into Foster care, can I meet the foster parents?
If my son or daughter calls one of the crisis lines, will I be informed?
What do I do if I am unhappy with your service?

Is there a fee for programs offered by WAYS?

• No, programs are free and are funded by the various provincial ministries responsible.
• If your child is in one of the Children’s Mental Health residences, you will be asked to continue to provide clothing for your child. If you have a benefit plan that covers medical and dental expenses, you will continue to be responsible for these costs.
• Our community-based programs are free.
• Our Fee for Service programs are generally purchased by a Children’s Aid Society.

Will I be part of the planning for my child?

• Yes, we want to work as a team. Parents are encouraged to be an active part of many meetings. When youth are in residential care, weekends home may be part of the plan.
• In our custody facilities youth may apply for reintegration leaves for weekends at home to assist in the transition back to home.
• Parents may visit at pre-arranged times in all our residences and custody facilities. 
• In foster care, staff and foster parents work in partnership with their local Children’s Aid Society (CAS). CAS determines family involvement.

• WAYS staff are trained child and youth workers. Staff possess college diplomas and/or related university degrees.

All direct service staff are trained in:

• dealing with mental health issues
• Prevention & Management of Aggressive Behaviour
• Cognitive Restructuring
• Brief Solutions Focussed Therapy
• alcohol & substance abuse
• suicidal behaviour
• self abuse
• self esteem
• life skill training
• anger management
• and many speciality areas dealing with youth issues

• WAYS is open to working with the children, families and youth regarding cultural and religious beliefs as soon as service begins.
• The primary worker solicits specific information from the family and youth to understand and create a plan that addresses and meets the needs presented. Please feel free to make your needs known to the WAYS worker.
• It is a fundamental right of youth to have access to religious guidance and instruction. The service plan will be designed with these needs in mind and should reflect how and when they will be met.

• Foster parents and biological parents are encouraged to work together in the best interests and well being of the child. However, there are times that a Children’s Aid Society custody order may put restrictions on the amount or type of involvement the parent(s) has with the foster family.
• Often, biological and foster parents work together to ensure a smooth transition home.

• Children and youth may call the crisis line and receive advice without giving any identifying information. 
• If ongoing support is negotiated, consent for service is required. Depending on the age of the youth, parental consent (signature) may be required which would allow sharing of information, if this is in the best interests of the child.
• Children over 16 years can consent to service without parental consent.

• WAYS encourages you to contact staff and supervisory staff to discuss concerns. Visit Contact Us for a listing of e-mail and phone numbers.
• Many WAYS programs send out surveys and welcome feedback about your satisfaction. Your thoughts and opinions are important to us.