Virginia: Foster Care Rights

About this resource

While Virginia does not have a formal Foster Youth Bill of Rights, foster care provides supports for physical health, emotional well-being, education, and legal advocacy while providing safe placements. Supports also include programs such as Medicaid, mental health services, educational stability, and independent living training help youth thrive. 

Youth also have the right to appeal service decisions, access annual credit reports, and take part in planning for a successful transition to adulthood.

If your rights are not being respected, talk with your Family Services Specialist. For unresolved issues, you can contact the Office of the Children's Ombudsman or the DSS Customer Relations Unit:  1-800-552-3431 [email protected]