The provincial government has designated a supervisor to oversee the Children’s Aid Society in Sudbury and Manitoulin due to worries about the well-being of youth in the care of the organization in northeastern Ontario. The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services announced the appointment of Steven Woodman as supervisor to manage the society’s operations in the aforementioned districts for a maximum period of one year. The decision was made following the ministry’s discovery of issues regarding the safety and welfare of children under the society’s guardianship.
Allegations made in the ministry’s statement include unauthorized child placement and service plan decisions being made by the society without legal consent or parental approval. Concerns were also raised about various incidents indicating potential risks to child safety, such as frequent use of restraints, modifications impeding children’s movement, and alterations hindering exits and posing fire safety hazards. Furthermore, the ministry cited instances of significant operational and financial mismanagement, highlighted by a 43% rise in the society’s deficit last year, necessitating emergency funding of close to $2 million.
Steven Woodman, formerly the executive director of the Durham Children’s Aid Society, has been entrusted with the role of supervisor. His primary responsibilities include ensuring that children and youth continue to receive secure, uninterrupted services while enhancing the society’s operational and financial performance. Woodman will be providing regular updates to the ministry on measures taken to support children and enhance financial management practices.
CBC has attempted to contact Elaina Groves, the CEO of the Children’s Aid Society Of The Districts Of Sudbury And Manitoulin, for a response.
