This guide is intended to provide a general overview of the right to be heard, with a specific focus on Katelynn's Principle and child-centred practice.
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For additional resources on child rights, see the guide here.
The Ontario child welfare sector has a responsibility to ensure that the rights of children are always upheld and that Katelynn’s Principle applies to all services, policies, and decision-making that affect children.
Additionally, one of the aims of the new Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA) is for child welfare practice and service delivery to be consistent with and build upon the principles expressed in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This entails putting children and youth at the centre of decision-making and outlining a clear set of rights that apply to all children and youth receiving services, including the right for children and youth to have their voices heard. Though not explicitly named, Katelynn’s Principle is also foundational to the CYFSA, which includes a section on “Rights of Children and Young Persons Receiving Services” that addresses many elements of Katelynn’s Principle.
This guide is intended as a supplementary resource for Children's Aid Society staff. It is not intended as an authority on social work or legal practice, nor is it meant to be representative of all perspectives in child welfare. CAS staff are encouraged to think critically when reviewing publications and other materials, and to always confirm practice and policy at their agency.