Question 1

Who can contact the YCAO?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can call us:Children & youthParents & caregiversProfessionalsConcerned Community membersIf a child or youth needs help, they can reach out!

Question 2

What happens when I call YCAO?

Accepted Answer

First, you'll talk with our Client Services Administrator. They'll listen to your concerns, explain what YCAO can and can't do, and keep your info confidential.

Next, our team reviews your case to see if it fits our mandate. If it does, an Advocacy Representative is assigned to support the child or youth. If not, we'll connect you to the right resources.

For more details, see the process on our Individual Advocacy page.

Question 3

Is YCAO part of the Yukon Government?

Accepted Answer

No. The YCAO is an oversight body that exists to promote and uphold the rights and views of Yukon children and youth. The YCAO is an independent office of the Legislative Assembly. We report annually to Members’ Services Board, an all party committee of the Legislative Assembly.We are not part of Family and Children’s Services, the police, the courts, legal services, and we are not support workers.

Question 4

Does it cost anything to get help?

Accepted Answer

No. Our services are free.

Question 5

Will my information be kept private? What information am I allowed to share?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can make a referral and share information with the YCAO for the purposes of advocacy. The YCAO will not share the source of a referral with anyone. Information the YCAO may ask for can include the name of the child, date of birth or other demographic information, and details about the advocacy issue(s). YG departments are legislatively required to share information requested by the YCAO for the purposes of advocacy.\We respect your privacy and will explain how your information is used when you contact us.

Question 6

What if my issue is outside your mandate?

Accepted Answer

We will do our best to connect you with other services or supports that may be able to help.

For help please contact us, or see our community resources page for more details.

Question 7

What are the ages of children that the YCAO can advocate for?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum age for advocacy; children’s rights apply from the day they are born. The Advocate Office provides services to young people:Under 18 years of age under the Youth Criminal Justice ActUnder 19 years of age under the Child & Family Services ActUnder 21 years of age under the Education ActBetween the ages of 19 and 26 that are eligible or receiving services under section 17 and 18 of the Child and Family Services Act

Question 8

Can the YCAO compel YG to implement recommendations?

Accepted Answer

Yukon Government departments are responsible to advise the YCAO of steps taken to implement recommendations. The YCAO tracks progress made annually.

Frequently Asked Questions