Child and Family Services System Navigator

SCO’s Child and Family Services System Navigator provides support and guidance for First Nation families in southern Manitoba that are navigating the Child and Family Services (CFS) system. The Navigator can offer support and guidance in the following ways:

  • Provide guidance to families and communities that need help navigating the CFS system.
  • Ensure that First Nation parents understand their rights when involved with the CFS system.
  • Ensure families understand the CFS policies and laws i.e.: case plans, terminology, court orders, etc.
  • Assist families with identifying short and long-term goals that are realistic and achievable.
  • Refer families to workshops, programs, funding, and other suitable resources for their wellbeing and success, both within in Winnipeg and in their communities.
  • Support families with new and updated information on CFS issues.
  • Establish positive working relationships with families, CFS agencies, and other family service organizations.

SCO strives to establish and maintain positive and respectful working relationships with all parties involved; families, communities, Chief and Council, CFS, legal groups, community organizations, and all levels of government, to ensure our children receive the best access to family supports and care.

The CFS System Navigator is available from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. To contact the Navigator, please call 204-946-1869.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a case plan?

Your case plan is a road map for bringing your children home, and it will spell out exactly what you need to do and learn to work toward family preservation or reunification.

A case plan identifies problematic behaviors, safety threats, and risks; it also identifies strategies and interventions. A case plan must include clear outcomes, goals, and tasks designed to facilitate positive changes for the child and family.

If my children are permanent wards, can I still work towards bringing my children home?

Yes! If you fully participate in your case plan, complete all required programs, maintain your scheduled visits, work with your worker and supports, and ensure you and your home are healthy and safe, reuniting with your children can happen.  It is crucial that you keep your worker informed of any changes that may affect your case plan and remember to ask questions when things start to become unclear.  Please call the SCO CFS System Navigator for guidance at 204-946-1869, extension 103 or toll-free at 1-866-876-9701.

Can CFS provide support without fully getting involved?

Yes, CFS can provide support through the Family Enhancement stream, without becoming permanently involved. Contact your CFS provider and ask about the services they offer and be clear about what it is you need. For additional support visit the Manitoba Parent Zone website at www.manitobaparentzone.ca, or contact the SCO CFS System Navigator at 204-946-1869, extension 103 or toll-free at 1-866-876-9701.

Can my worker cancel my visits due to COVID-19?

Yes, it is the agency’s responsibility to ensure children are safe; in addition, agencies have to follow their Emergency Pandemic Plan and the Manitoba Pandemic Response System, which varies from region to region. Contact your agency for more information regarding COVID-19 and what supports they have in place for parents to remain in contact during this time.

I am having difficulties with my worker and/or agency, what can I do?

The Agency Complaint Resolution Process is a helpful tool when dealing with your worker/agency.  Following proper protocol is key in receiving positive outcomes.

Here is what you can do:

  1. Make sure you have you workers contact information; email and work number and document their supervisor’s name and contact information as well.
  2. Be clear about what you are requesting and what your concerns and complaints are to ensure you receive a direct and clear response.
  3. Remember some matters take time. If you do not hear back from the CFS worker within a week, be prepared to take your concern up to their supervisor or the Agency Executive Director.
  4. Document all of your communication and their responses, this will show that you have followed the proper protocol.
  5. If you feel you are still in need of help, there are more ways available to help you with your concern or complaint. You can contact the Southern First Nation Network of Care at 1-800-665-5762, or the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth at 1-800-263-7146.

If you have followed protocol and still feel that you are having difficulties with one of the steps or if you have completed all of the steps above and still need further support, you can contact the SCO CFS System Navigator at 204-946-1869, extension 103 or toll-free at 1-866-876-9701.

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