What We Can Help With
What We Can Help With
What We Can Help You With
Our office has a team of Advocates that will listen to you and help you get information and services you need. Our Advocates know a lot about government programs and how to get answers you might be looking for. They can make sure your needs are met, your voice is heard, and you are included in decisions that impact you.
If you’re an adult supporting a young person, we can provide you with advice, information and advocacy support.
If You Are Between 0-18 Years Old, Here Are Some Ways We Can Help:
If You Are Under 19, Here’s How We Can Help:
Young Adult Concerns (19-27 years old)
If You Are Under 27, Here's How We Can Help:
Our Process: Advocacy intake for children, youth & young adults
The Representative for Children and Youth makes sure the voices of B.C.’s young people are heard. We know that situations can be complicated and sometimes it’s scary to ask for help. That’s one of the reasons we’re easy to contact. Our services are free, confidential, and non-judgemental.
What happens when you call our Advocacy line at 1-800-476-3933 or email rcy@rcybc.ca?
1. Intake
An Intake Coordinator answers the call. They will obtain basic information from you and the call will be passed to an Advocate.
Basic information includes: your first name, age, general location, a call-back phone number, a brief summary of the issue, if a social worker is involved.
This call is private and confidential. This line is free to use.
If you prefer to email, you can contact an Advocate at rcy@rcybc.ca.
2. Advocate
You will be connected to an Advocate right after your conversation with the Intake Coordinator.
An RCY Advocate will gather info from you about your concerns. The Advocate will offer you support you by:
- getting you in touch with specific supports.
- providing a safe place for you to speak.
- promoting your rights, and amplifying your voice by speaking up for you if needed.
If an Adult is Calling on Behalf of a Young Person
If you’re an adult, your call will be answered by the Intake Coordinator who will get basic information.
Basic information includes: your first name, age, general location, a call-back phone number, a brief summary of the issue, if a social worker is involved.
We will get back to you within 3-5 business days.
If you prefer to email, you can contact an Advocate at rcy@rcybc.ca.
What We Can't Help With
Family Law Matters and Legal Representation
Our mandate does not allow us to get involved in custody or guardianship disputes, separation, support, and family court processes. If you need help with family law or are looking for legal representation for other concerns, contact:
- Family Law in BC (Legal Aid BC): Call or text: 1-855-875-8867
- Child and Youth Legal Centre (CYLC) — Society for Children and Youth of BC: Phone: 778-657-5544 or toll free at 1-877-462-0037
- Family Justice Centres (BC Government)
- Clicklaw (BC Legal Information Portal)
Historical Disputes with MCFD or an ICFSA
If you are a former child or youth in care and have a complaint about the quality of service you received or a decision made, contact a Ministry Complaints Specialist at 1-877-387-7027. You can also reach out to the BC Ombudsperson.
Complaints where there is no MCFD or ICFSA involvement
If you have a concern involving the K-12 school system, health care, or income assistance, reach out through those ministries’ complaint processes.
Matters relating to Jordan’s Principle
Jordan’s Principle is a child-first principle to ensure First Nations children get the services they need when they need them. The program is administered by the Government of Canada. If your request is delayed or denied, or you feel Jordan’s Principle is not being applied fairly you can:
- Call the Jordan’s Principle Call Centre 1-855-JP-CHILD 24/7
- Engage with local Jordan’s Principle service coordinators in First Nations communities or organizations
- Contact First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement
The First Nations Caring Society also suggests contacting the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, your area’s Member of Parliament, or the Prime Minister’s Office.
For concerns where we are unable to provide direct advocacy supports, we encourage you to engage in formal ministry complaints processes, contact the Ombudsperson, connect with your local MLA, or seek legal advice.
