Preparing to contact the ministry

Deciding to ask the Ministry of Children and Family Development for help is an important step. To prepare yourself well, please consider the following:

• Visit the Ministry of Children and Family Development website to learn exactly what the ministry can and can't do.
• Talk to other parents about their experiences with ministry services.
• Talk to your family and friends about how they can help.
• Consider your finances and what help may be available to you. Find out what the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance, Mental Health Services and other government programs, service clubs, or family members might pay for.
• Get the help of an advocate. An advocate can explain the risks and benefits of contacting the ministry, help you search for alternative resources, and help you develop a plan for getting the support and services you need.
• Find a counsellor or therapist to talk to about your needs.