This self-help information is for parents who are having trouble looking after their children and want to ask the Ministry of Children and Family Development for help. It also contains information that will be helpful to advocates whose work involves child protection issues.

Your rights and responsibilities

When you might ask the ministry for help

Before you ask the ministry for help

Pros and cons of contacting the ministry

Preparing to contact the ministry

Telling the ministry what you need

Maintaining confidentiality

What the ministry can do

Note: The information in this guide presents an overview only. The information may not tell you exactly what will happen in your case. For legal help, see How to get a lawyer.