B.C.’s Representative for Children and Youth Jennifer Charlesworth says the provincial government must act to better protect the interests of children and youth involuntarily detained under the Mental Health Act. 

Detained identifies systemic “push” factors like inadequate care, racism, and colonial practices, alongside “pull” factors such as the search for community or connection, as reasons why youth leave care. Roughly 65% of missing children were Indigenous, pointing to deep-rooted inequities. In addition, the province lacks consistent data and effective response protocols, making it difficult to track and prevent these disappearances. The RCY calls for urgent reforms to create a child welfare system where all young people feel safe, supported, and seen.