If I call the Rep, will someone tell my foster parents?

No. Calls to the RepLine are private and confidential, unless we have to take immediate action to help you get out of a dangerous situation. Even then, no one will tell your foster parents, your caseworker or anyone else you called unless you give us permission.

I'm 13 and don't want to live with the foster parents I've been placed with. Can I move to another home?

The Rep can't step in and change a decision that has been made about you, but we can help you get your views heard and considered with the people who can make those decisions. You have a right live somewhere you feel safe, so if you do not feel safe in your new foster home, please call the RepLine at 1-800-476-3933.

I live in a group home. Can you help get me a transfer?

If you are unhappy where you've been placed, the Rep's office can help you think of ways to solve a problem you may be having in your group home or can help you have your voice heard if you want to be moved.

My friend is being abused. What should I do?

You should call the Children's Helpline right away. Call 310-1234 (no area code) or dial 0 from any phone in B.C. to call the operator and ask for the Children's Helpline. The Rep can help children and youth in B.C. in many ways, but if you or someone you know is in danger and needs protection, it's best to tell someone you trust and get help as soon as you can.

I have been in the same foster home for three years, and now I have to move, but I don't want to. What should I do?

It might be possible for you to stay with your foster family, but each young person's situation is different. The Rep can help you figure out what is going on and can help you make sure the people making decisions about you know that's what you want.

I'm 16. I applied for a youth agreement and I'm not eligible. Can you help me get a youth agreement?

If you call the RepLine, someone can tell you more about youth agreements and how they work. We can help you figure out why you were not eligible and can help you talk to the people who made the decision so they know how you feel. You can call us from anywhere in B.C. for free at 1-800-476-3933.

I am not a child in care. Do you only advocate for children in care?

No. Any child or youth can contact the RepLine (1-800-476-3933). When you call, you will talk to an advocate who will determine if we are able to assist you.

I need braces and I have asked my social worker and have not received an answer yet. It’s been six months. Can you help me get the braces I need?

An advocate can help you by requesting that the social worker answer your question as soon as possible. The advocate will make sure that the social worker explains the decision, will help you to understand the answers to any questions you have and will explain the appeal process should you be told that you cannot get the braces. To speak to an advocate you can contact the RepLine at 1-800-476-3933.

My social worker told me I need to live with my auntie, but I don’t want to stay there. Can you help me find another place to live?

An advocate can listen to your concerns and assist you with having your voice heard and considered by your social worker. If you are still not happy with the social worker’s decision, an advocate can help you to file a complaint about the decision and ask that the decision be reconsidered. You do have a right to have your say about decisions that are being made on your behalf.

I live in a group home and I am turning 19 soon. Am I able to stay here, or do I have to move?

When you turn 19, you are no longer considered a child in care and you cannot typically live in a group home for children in care. An advocate can help provide information and discuss your options as you begin your transition out of care. To speak to an advocate, you can call the RepLine at 1-800-476-3933.

I am currently staying at a safe house and I don’t want to return home. Can you help me find a place to live?

A social worker within the Ministry of Children and Family Development will need to assess your situation to determine the reasons why you do not want to return home. If it is not safe for you to return home, the social worker can assist you in developing an alternative plan. You can call the RepLine (1-800-476-3933) to speak to an advocate if you are experiencing difficulties getting the services and supports you need from the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

I am living with my foster parents and I really want to play soccer. They say they would like me to play, but the fees are too high. Can you help my foster parents pay the sporting fees for me?

As a child in care, you have rights including the right to participate in social and recreation activities if available and appropriate, and according to your abilities and interests. These rights are referred to as the rights of children in care. You can contact the RepLine (1-800-476-3933) to find out more about your rights as a child in care. You can request the help of an advocate if you feel you are being denied your rights.

I don’t feel like my social worker is listening to me. Where can I make a complaint?

Each region has staff known as dispute resolution consultants who listen to complaints and help resolve issues. You can find out how to contact the dispute resolution consultant for your region by asking your foster parent or caregiver, or by calling the Ministry of Children and Family Development customer service line at 1-877-387-7027. You can also call the RepLine (1-800-476-3933) and an advocate will assist you to connect with the dispute resolution consultant, or may suggest other ways to voice your concerns.