Families Canada has been working closely with FRP BC, who have developed a provincial standards of practice process that has been in place for several years in BC. This has been an invaluable tool for Family Resource Programs in BC, and we are excited to be able to expand access to this resource to more Family Resource and Family Support Programs and their umbrella agencies across the country.   

As this transition begins, we want to proudly recognize FRP - BC as the developer and creator of the first set of standards for the Family Support sector within Canada. This has really paved the way for Families Canada to be able to begin the work to offer a version that is adapted to a national context, so that organizations in many other provinces can access them, take guidance from them and apply them to their practice to ensure the best quality services and systems are in place for families. Another benefit of this work is its potential to raise the profile of the sector nationally which impacts funding opportunities and public awareness.   

As we initiate this process, there are many considerations to take into account and we hope that strong collaboration within the sector will help guide next steps and result in a valuable resource that reflects and builds on the diverse needs and contexts of family resource and family support organizations across the country.   

FIVE KEY CONSIDERATIONS about the process and plan so far: 

1. Those already accredited in BC within the last five years (prior to 2019) will not lose their accreditation or have to redo it. 
    
2. This will not happen overnight. The transition of the standards of practice from provincial to national will take time and many factors need to be considered along the way. 
    
3. Families Canada will be establishing an advisory committee to help guide and inform the process, identify the steps, and ensure the final product is relevant, accessible and useful.  
    
4. We would like to invite BC organizations who have become accredited within the last five years to participate in the advisory committee so they can share direct experience and provide input. We also want to ensure diversity and geographic representation in the advisory committee so stay tuned for a national call for participation soon! 
    
5. The final product will be a great tool with greater reach. The national standards of practice will build and strengthen the family resource and family support sector by creating standards to follow that will help build capacity, ensure accessible and inclusive programming and services, and continue to expand Family Resource and Family Support Programs and their umbrella organizations across Canada. 

Families Canada