Frequently Asked Questions: Part X (Personal Information)
Part X of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act sets out new rules for the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by service providers, including children’s aid societies. It establishes rights for individuals to access and request corrections to their personal information and provide consent on how their personal information is shared.
What service providers are subject to Part X of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act?
Part X establishes a new access and privacy framework for personal information held by service providers in the child, youth and family sector. These include children’s aid societies, group homes, and services for at-risk youth.
When will I be able to obtain access and make corrections to my records?
Part X of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act comes into force on January 1, 2020. As of this date, you will have a statutory right to access your personal information from a service provider within specific timelines and to request corrections.
You can request access or correction of your personal information from a service provider before this date, but the timelines and other rules set out in Part X of the Children, Youth and Family Services Act will not apply.
What is the role of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC)?
The IPC is responsible for administering and enforcing access and privacy rules under Part X of Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act. As of January 1, 2020, if a service provider denies your request to access or make corrections to your personal information you will be able to file a complaint with our office. You will also be able to file a privacy complaint with the IPC if you believe a service provider has improperly collected, used or disclosed your personal information.
Part X of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act does not apply to records related to an adoption, once the adoption has been finalized. Learn how you can request information about an adoption.
Who can I contact if a service provider has refused my request for access or corrections or improperly disclosed my personal information?
As of January 1, 2020, you will be able to file a complaint with the IPC if a child, youth and family service provider denies your request to access or make corrections to your personal information. You will also be able to file a privacy complaint with our office if you believe a service provider has improperly collected, used or disclosed your personal information.
