Letter: Women’s Centre Defends Protocols, Calls for Sensitivity Following Youth’s Return
In a letter entitled 'Hope Restored: Missing Owen Sound Youth Found Safe,' the executive director of The Women's Centre and Studio Blue Youth Services seeks to address public concerns.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
After weeks of uncertainty and concern, a missing youth from the area has been found safe. The youth was residing at The Women’s Centre Grey Bruce’s at-risk youth shelter known as Studio Blue Youth Services.
The program is entirely voluntary, and should a resident decide to leave, it is their choice. The program does not offer treatment for medical or psychiatric conditions, and is not a locked-down mental health facility.
In support of an active investigation, commentary was not provided to media on the incident.
At this time, we can confirm that the youth left the residence in the middle of the night, and when staff became aware of their absence during a routine room check performed each shift, immediate action was taken, notifying law enforcement.
Staff worked with the Owen Sound Police Service and Bruce Grey Child & Family Services in a shared commitment to the well-being of this youth.
As a result of this event, our staff are reviewing all protocols to ensure we continue to provide the most secure and supportive environment possible. Our Board of Directors are fully aligned with staff on this matter, reinforcing our commitment to youth who rely on our services.
We appreciate the efforts of law enforcement, social service agencies, and the community in safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
The Owen Sound Police have requested the removal of all social media posts related to the youth’s disappearance, and names have been removed from this letter today for that reason. Our agency fully respects this request and encourages the community to do the same, ensuring privacy and sensitivity for all involved.
The Women’s Centre will continue to assist the Owen Sound Police Services and Bruce Grey Child & Family Services in supporting our clients. We remain committed to working with the women, children and youth who enroll in our programs and services, to guide them toward a more stable and promising future and violence-free lives.
Studio Blue Youth Services remains stronger than ever in providing counselling, support, and protection for youth facing difficult circumstances.
While we recognize and respect the important role of the media in keeping the public informed, recent coverage involving footage of our location and attempts to engage with staff and youth on site has raised serious concerns about the privacy and safety of those we serve.
Additionally, the use of online platforms in this context has not supported the recovery of the missing youth and has instead caused unnecessary distress and disruption.
We respectfully urge the community to focus on supporting those directly impacted and to engage in constructive, respectful dialogue that prioritizes the safety, dignity, and well-being of vulnerable youth.
If you, or someone you know, is in need of our services, we encourage you to reach out to us at info@thewomenscentre.org. Together, we continue to build a caring and resilient community.
Heather Sheldrick
Executive Director, The Women’s Centre
Editor’s Note: The Owen Sound Current did not publish footage of Studio Blue Youth Services, and has not attempted to engage with staff or youth on-site.
Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of The Owen Sound Current and its editor or publisher.