11 and Under Initiative (11UI)
Research tells us that experiences in a young person's life, both positive and negative, go on to shape the health and social success of their future. The 11 and Under Initiative (11UI) is targeted at children exposed to risk factors that may increase their tendency to engage in unhealthy behavior. By identifying these children early in their life and addressing the challenges faced by their family, the initiative's goal is to make appropriate connections and referrals for children to optimize their health, safety and development.
To this end, a commitment has been solidified among Regina Public School Board, Regina Catholic School Board, the Regina Police Service, the Ministry of Social Services, Child and Youth Services (Randall Kinship Center), Mental Health and Addiction Services, City of Regina (Sports and Recreation Branch), Ehrlo Counseling Services, Regina Open Door Society and 2 Community Elders.
The objectives are early identification of children 11 years of age or younger, demonstrating behavior that may put them or other family members at risk; create a process of seamless referrals to the appropriate service provider(s); increase information sharing among service providers and to connect children and their families with schools, community programs and other needed services.
Children who are identified as being exposed to risk factors that may potentially increase their risk of developing detrimental behavior patterns will be referred by all participating agencies through a single intake point.
An initial screening is conducted by looking at the child and their family circumstances. Those who meet the criteria of this initiative and consent to participate will be reviewed weekly among a working group of the relevant key partners with the objective to avoid duplication of services and increase communication among the service providers. This group arranges a more in depth assessment of the child and their families needs as well as works to develop a plan that would be implemented with the family's agreement and consent. Regular follow up is conducted to track the progress of individual families.
Long term this initiative seeks a reduction in the numbers of children involved in the criminal justice system, a reduction in the number of families requiring long term social assistance and more children staying in school and continuing on to fulfill their potential as healthy, productive members of society.