Mission Statement

The Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth serves youth in state care and the margins of state care through individual, systemic and policy advocacy.  The Office strives, at every level of its operation to be an exemplar of youth participation.

 

 

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About Us

The Office of the Provincial Advocate reports directly to the Legislature and provides an independent voice for children and youth, including children with special needs and First Nations children.

The advocates receive and respond to concerns from children, youth and families who are seeking or receiving services under the Child and Family Services Act and the Education Act (Provincial and Demonstration Schools).

The Provincial Advocate may identify systemic problems involving children, conduct reviews and provide education and advice on the issue of advocacy and the rights of children.

The Office is guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and has a strong commitment to youth involvement.

Ontario Advocate for Children and Youth Welcomes Federal Court Ruling

This week, Canada's Federal Court ruled in favour of further investigation into allegations the Federal Government discriminates against First Nations children by providing less child welfare benefits to those on reserves.

The ruling overturns the decision of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal that dismissed the original case filed in 2007 by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada (FNCFCSC).

The Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth of Ontario welcomes this decision.

Provincial Advocate Irwin Elman says, "Truth and reconciliation can only begin when systemic discrimination is challenged and brought to the light of day." He further states, "My Office signed on to the FNCFCSC's 'Be a Witness Campaign' in 2009 and will steadfastly continue to work with renewed energy to encourage others to participate in the discussion. It is our mandate to work with all children and their communities, alongside advocates, to find a path towards making reconciliation a priority in our province."

Please click here to learn more about the decision.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE 2012

25 is the NEW 21 The Costs and Benefits of Providing Extended Care & Maintenance to Ontario Youth in Care Until Age 25

Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child

The Office of the Chief Coroner’s Death Review of the Youth Suicides at the Pikangikum First Nation 2006 – 2008

Aboriginal Children Canada Must Do Better: Today and Tomorrow

Our Dreams Matter Too First Nations children's rights, lives, and education

Submission to the standing committee on social policy Re: Bill 140

Statement on Child and Youth Mental Health in Ontario

Ontario Court Of Appeal Composition of Jury in Reggie Bushie Inquest

Ontario Court Of Appeal Composition of Jury in Reggie Bushie Inquest (OPACY submission)