Family and Children’s Services (FACS) is a child protection agency mandated by Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act.
Our responsibility is to protect children and youth from harm such as physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect or risk of harm, within St. Thomas and Elgin County. We are required by law to investigate concerns from the community with respect to children under the age of 16 and can, with their consent, provide services to youth 16 and 17 years old.

If a youth 16 or 17year old is in need of protection, FACS can provide support and assist them to make decisions that help to minimize the risk to their safety and promote their best interests, protection and well-being.

We understand that receiving a call or visit from FACS can be a stressful experience, and that you may have many questions and concerns. Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act mandates that FACS must undertake prompt investigation of any referral alleging that a child may be in need of protection.
Community members have a duty to report to FACS when there are reasonable grounds to believe a child is in need of protection.

Child protection investigations are conducted by Child Protection Workers authorized under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act.