The Ministry of Children and Family Development recently created the Provincial Reference Group to assist the ministry in the transformation process. The group comprises approximately 150 members, including MCFD staff, service providers, advocacy groups, university representatives, Aboriginal planning committees, local government and other social policy ministries.

The aim of the group is to ensure two-way communication of information, provide an opportunity to participate in the planning and sharing of ideas, assist the provincial office in evaluating transformation progress and provide a forum for the strengthening of relationships between many diverse organizations.

The Reference Group acts in an advisory capacity and will assist the leadership team in monitoring transformation as well as provide a forum to celebrate successes and strengths. To date, two meetings have taken place: one on October 19, 2006 and another on February 8, 2007, both in Richmond.

Regional Reference Groups

In order to provide the opportunity for as many people as possible to participate in the transformation process we are developing a series of Regional Reference groups which will be similar to the Provincial Reference group. This will also allow the unique circumstances of each region to be taken into consideration during discussions. In addition, a Reference group for the Provincial office staff will also be established to ensure maximum opportunity for participation.

Upcoming meetings:

• TBD