What is Advocacy
Special Investigation Review Children 6-11 Youth 12 - 18 Links
 
 

 

 

 

An Advocate is someone who speaks on behalf of another individual. We are all advocates and each of us is our own best advocate.

Where people have their own voice, advocacy means making sure they are heard. Where they have difficulty speaking, it means providing help. Where they have no voice, it means speaking for them.

Effective advocacy is about welcoming people into the decision-making process by ensuring that their voices are heard and considered in the decisions that are made about their lives.

Who Can Call?

Anyone can call who has concerns about the services a child or young person is receiving or not receiving from the child and family services community.

We also respond to concerns raised about services provided under both Acts. While we may respond to parents' and other adults' concerns, our first concern is always for children and youth.

Our services are available to anyone under the age of 18 who is currently receiving, or is entitled to receive, services under The Child and Family Services Act and/or The Adoption Act.

What Does the Children's Advocate Do?

The Office of the Children's Advocate has staff who will:
  • Listen to your concerns.
  • Help you help a child by giving you information about how to solve their situation.
  • Provide information about the child and family services and adoption system in Manitoba.
  • Help you say what you want to say to agencies.
  • Make recommendations to those in positions of authority inside the agencies or government.

The Children's Advocate Cannot

  • Make decisions regarding children in care.
  • Intervene in private custody and access matters.
  • Intervene in matters outside our mandate.
  • Provide child protection services.
  • Act as legal counsel for children.

What Will Happen When You Call?

When you call, an advocate will speak with you as quickly as possible. If one is not available, you will be asked to leave your name and number and your call will be returned. Your requests for our services will remain private and confidential.

 

 
 
Office of the Children's Advocate
Unit 100 - 346 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3C 0C3