Panel Asks for Input on Services and Supports for Youth

The independent review panel responsible for looking into the approach by the Halifax Regional School Board and associated agencies leading up to the death of a Nova Scotian high school student is seeking public input.

In April, two out-of-province experts, Debra Pepler and Penny Milton, formed the independent review panel at the request of the province. The panel reports to Marilyn More, minister responsible for the Status of Women.

"We welcome all ideas about what works well and what needs to work better for children and youth," said Ms. Pepler. "The information we receive from the public will help us prepare thoughtful and purposeful recommendations."

The review panel will use the feedback to recommend ways to enhance mental health and social-emotional supports for children and youth.

"Hearing from Nova Scotians about ways to improve the services and supports we offer young people is very important," said Ms. More. "It is particularly important to me to hear from young people themselves, to ensure the panel gets a wide range of perspectives and ideas that will help us improve the current system."

Interested Nova Scotians have until Friday, June 7 to provide input in either English or French. All submissions are anonymous and confidential. Input may be provided in two ways:

• An online questionnaire is available at www.reviewpanelinput.com.

• Written submissions can be mailed to: HRSB Review Panel P.O. Box 333 Halifax, NS B3J 2N7

The report and recommendations of the independent review of the Halifax Regional School Board is expected on Friday, June 14. The work will not interfere with any ongoing criminal investigations or proceedings.