Aboriginal Policy and Practice Framework in British Columbia /

It applies to policy and practice involving Aboriginal children, youth and families on and off reserve regardless if they are being served by a Delegated Aboriginal Agency or the Ministry of Children and Family Development 1. Restorative policies and practices are culturally safe and trauma- informed, supporting and honouring Aboriginal peoples’ cultural systems of caring and resiliency. [...] The framework’s model for restorative policy and practice is Child, Youth, Family and Community-Centred; Culture- Centred; Inclusive, Collaborative and Accountable; and focused on Resilience, Wellness and Healing The framework identifies the Circle process as a strength-based and holistic way to support policies and practices to be restorative. [...] THE VALUES THAT MUST GUIDE and INFORM POLICY and PRACTICE ARE:19 RESPECT: To hold esteem, recognition and regard for the knowledge, traditions, distinct cultures, languages and processes of Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities, and to be informed of Aboriginal histories and current experiences. [...] KEY POLICY IMPLICATIONS Some of the implications for policy development and implementation of Gathering the Circle include ensuring that the language, content and implementation of policies: } Acknowledge and create the space for the multiple roles and responsibilities that must be played by different members of families and communities; } Reflect Aboriginal knowledge, world views and perspectives [...] KEY POLICY IMPLICATIONS Some of the implications for policy development and implementation of Listening, Assessing and Finding Solutions include ensuring that the language, content and implementation of policies: } Are responsive to the unique context and challenges facing Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities; } Promote and support proactive efforts and support a strength-based pra