Currently in Canada, children and families affected by the justice system are underserved. There are not the supports needed, and this is where we need to invest resources.
In terms of the specific types of support, I agree that counselling is very important. Also, because of the stigma that is associated with having a parent involved in the justice system, children feel as if they are the only one. Connecting them to other peers and having peer support groups and mentorship are key, so that we can help to foster academic success and employment as they navigate and grow up. It's very important.
Also, I think that they need to be included and have their voices heard at all stages of the justice system, when we are making decisions that impact them.
Lastly, we know how important it is for children to have contact with their parents. If we are talking about rehabilitating the family unit, and if it is the desire of the child to have that contact, we need to make sure we are creating opportunities to facilitate it and to reduce the barriers. Currently, there are many barriers to that.