During an ongoing inspection of a licensed child care facility you are approached by the licensee (Barbara) who expresses concerns to you about a 5-year old boy (Kevin) in her care. Barbara states that she thinks Kevin is being neglected at home. Upon questioning Barbara states that she has noticed that Kevin routinely arrives at her facility inappropriately dressed for the weather conditions, often appears un-bathed and wearing dirty worn out clothes, and frequently arrives with no snack or lunch (which is supposed to be supplied by the parents). Barbara goes on to say that she has noticed Kevin foraging for food from other children and on two occasions Kevin has been reported to have stolen snacks from other children. When you ask about Kevin'sbehaviourwhile in care Barbara indicates that Kevin often appears sad and reluctant to get involved with planned activities. Barbara tells you that she has talked to Kevin's mother, who is a single parent, on three separate occasions about dressing Kevin appropriately and providing snacks and lunch for Kevin and that after each discussion things would improve for a few days but then fall back into the old pattern.

Barbara is unsure of further steps that she could take and is asking you for advice.

What advice would you provide Barbara? Is there more information that you need? What actions should Barbara take? What actions as a Community Care Licensing Officer would you take? What resources or services are available to assist in this situation?

References

https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/332_2007

https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/02075_01

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/accessing-health-care/finding-assisted-living-residential-care-facilities/residential-care-facilities/a_guide_to_community_care_facility_licensing_in_british_columbia_spring_2016_update.pdf