Voluntary Youth Services Agreement
A Voluntary Youth Services Agreement, or VYSA, may be available to eligible youth who are 16 or 17 years old who are in need of protection.
A VYSA is voluntary. The youth must want to enter into the agreement and be willing to take part in planning for their safety and support.
A VYSA may be available for youth who:
- Are 16 or 17 years old
- Live in the area served by the children’s aid society
- Are or may be in need of protection, as assessed by a child protection worker
- Cannot be adequately protected at home or in their current living situation
- Have no other safe options with family, friends, or community supports
- Want to enter into the agreement voluntarily
Eligibility for a VYSA is determined through a child protection assessment. A child protection worker will engage with the youth and their family or caregivers to understand the situation, explore available supports, and determine whether the youth meets the eligibility requirements.
This includes considering whether the youth is or may be in need of protection, whether they can be safely supported in their current living situation, and whether other safe options are available.
If you are concerned that a 16 or 17-year-old may be in need of protection; or if you are a 16 or 17-year-old and you think you may be in need of protection, you can contact us or the children’s aid society in your area.
A child protection worker will review the situation and determine what services or supports may be appropriate.
Learn more about protection services for 16 and 17-Year-Olds and youth serving agencies.
In 2018, the age of protection in Ontario was raised from 16 to 18. This means 16 and 17-year-olds may now be eligible for child protection services.
For eligible youth, this may include a Voluntary Youth Services Agreement when the youth is or may be in need of protection and an out-of-home placement is required.
For more information, click here.
