Nova Scotia tracks surge in runaway incidents from group homes
Nova Scotia’s Department of Opportunities and Social Development has begun quarterly reporting on hundreds of missing-youth incidents at group homes, highlighting a growing concern over repeat runaways.
For the first time Nova Scotia is publishing quarterly statistics on youth absences from group homes, revealing 491 missing-child incidents from August 2025 to March 2026. With fewer than 150 children in provincial group homes, the data suggest many youths are reported missing multiple times. Researchers note that group homes generate the highest number of missing-person reports nationwide, and repeated runaways increase vulnerability to homelessness and trafficking.
The Department of Opportunities and Social Development says it is coordinating with care providers and social workers to assess each report and improve safety, while police explain that some cases do not meet the formal missing-person criteria. Former care recipients describe bullying, theft, and lack of trust as drivers of their escapes, underscoring systemic gaps in support and stability.
Why it matters
Repeated runaway incidents expose vulnerable youth to heightened risk of harm and highlight gaps in Nova Scotia's child-care oversight.
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