Suite 205 Beothuk Building, 20 Crosbie Place PO BOx 8700
Tel: (709) 753-3888 Email: office@ocya.nl.ca Toll-Free: 1-877-753-888
Text: (709) 682-OCYA (6292) Media: https://bsky.app/profile/ocyanl.bsky.social
Website: www.childandyouthadvocate.nl.ca
Mandate: We help children and youth in Newfoundland and Labrador by independently standing up for their rights and interests in dealing with child and youth-serving systems. We work hard to make sure their voices are heard in matters affecting them and that they get the services they have a right to receive from the government, its boards, and its agencies. We help young people express their opinions or views and if they are unable to do so, speak on their behalf. We are an independent office of the House of Assembly, and our job is ensuring their rights are understood, protected, respected, and upheld.
Target Population: We provide services to any child or youth under the age of 19 years old who is entitled to receive services from a government department, agency or board. The age is extended to youth up to their 21st birthday if they are in a care or custody arrangement.
Highlight of Programs / Services Offered:
Individual Advocacy: We speak up for you, with you, or help you speak up for yourself, so your voice is heard, and your rights are respected.
Systemic Advocacy: We look into issues that affect groups of children and youth.
Reviews/Investigations: We formally review and investigate concerns on behalf of an individual or group of children and youth.
Education and Outreach: We offer education sessions and workshops with youth groups, community organizations, schools, and professionals about child and youth rights.
Anyone can contact us if you have concerns about the rights of a child or youth
Reach out to us if you:
- You have a complaint(s) regarding access to services
- You believe your viewpoint is not being heard or that your rights are being ignored
- You believe that all information about your needs have not been considered
- Call us, email, or drop into the office.
- We offer a friendly, accepting, safe, and supportive space.
- You can bring a support person if it makes you feel more comfortable.
We also have a fabulous Young Artist Program! Are you a young artist under the age of 21?
If so, we would love to showcase your artwork on our website, social media, newsletters, reports, and other resource materials about children’s rights. We are interested in drawing, paintings, photos, or even your poetry. We provide a prize pack for all submissions. For more information, see here.