Quebec youth protection directors warn social safety net is under strain

Quebec’s youth protection directors are urging the province to strengthen support for families as more households face housing instability, rising food costs and other pressures linked to the cost of living. In their 202526 annual report, the directors said child protection should not become the main entry point for families in crisis. They argued that prevention, community services and broader social supports are needed so families can get help before problems reach the youth protection system. The report said Quebec recorded 144,321 child protection reports last year, up 1.4 per cent from the previous year, while fewer than a third were kept for further assessment. Officials said the gap between rising reports and the number of cases retained reflects pressure on the system and continued strain on vulnerable families.