Drug toxicity was probably the most frequent causes of loss of life amongst younger individuals within the provincial welfare system during the last 12 months, a brand new report exhibits.
Alberta’s Youngster and Youth Advocate investigated the deaths of 47 kids and youth who had been concerned with the kid welfare community. Advocate Terri Pelton’s workplace additionally investigated one critical damage case.
Of the 48 whole circumstances reviewed – which spanned from April 1, 2023, to Mar. 31, 2024 –10 youths and kids died from drug and alcohol abuse.
On the time of their passing or critical damage, 12 had been in care; 20 had been receiving little one intervention providers; and 16 had obtained providers throughout the prior two years. Eleven had been beneath the age of six, and 35 had been Indigenous.
Pelton says it’s deeply regarding to see youth as younger as 12 use substances, particularly referencing two youngsters who died on the ages of 16 and 17 from fentanyl and methamphetamine toxicity.
The 48 investigative evaluations shall be compiled right into a consolidated investigative evaluation report that may make suggestions to authorities officers. It’s anticipated to be launched within the fall.
