In 2001, the government of Alberta approved a set of policy changes, commonly referred to as the Alberta Response Model (ARM), in order to improve services and outcomes for children, youth and families in Alberta. ARM focuses on enhancing community-based partnerships and enriching natural family supports.  These principles provided the background for the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, which became law on November 1, 2004. 

This Act is the legal authority in Alberta for providing intervention services when there are concerns that a child or youth is being neglected or abused by their parent or guardian. It is through the Enhancement Act that Alberta Children’s Services staff conducts the day to day business of child intervention, foster care and adoption services.  
 
The Enhancement Act is based on the following principles:

• The best interests, safety and well-being of children come first, and this guides all decision-making regarding any child. All children in Alberta deserve a safe, stable home where they are nurtured by healthy families.
• Loving, stable, nurturing and lasting relationships are essential in a child’s development. Children need permanence in their lives as soon as possible. 
• The family is the most appropriate place for children to receive the care they need.  Families are stronger when they have the support of extended family and community members. 
• Parents or guardians are responsible for the care and supervision of their children and have both an obligation and a right to raise them according to their values, culture and beliefs. However, when parents or guardians are unwilling or unable to ensure a child’s safety and development, the community and Alberta Children’s Services have an obligation to intervene and protect.
• Parents and guardians deserve time, support and resources to help them solve their problems and to fulfill their parental role. However, if children can’t receive the care they need in their family of origin, children must be supported in making that permanent attachment elsewhere.  
• A child’s cultural identity should be preserved at all times while in the care of Alberta Children’s Services.
• The well-being, self-reliance and preservation of cultural heritage of Aboriginal children, families and communities should be promoted and supported. 

Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act 

Read more about the Alberta Response Model