The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is committed to ensuring children and youth in Newfoundland and Labrador receive the best possible health services, including mental health services. Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children and Youth (UNCRC) states that children have the right to the best health care possible. This includes mental health services, resources, and supports.

As part of its mandate, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate aims to ensure that the rights and interests of children and youth are protected and advanced and their views are heard and considered. The Advocate invites young people and families who have direct experience with the mental health system here in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as professionals and other stakeholders, to reach out to the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate in confidence to share their experiences and ideas. Opportunities to meet with OCYA staff directly will happen throughout the province over the coming weeks.

“Since being appointed as the Advocate in 2022, I have become increasingly concerned about the mental health outcomes for children and youth in our province. As part of my role and the role of the Office, we have to be sure that mental health services are available, effective, responsive, and relevant to children and youth”. The Child and Youth Advocate, Linda Clemens-Spurrell.

If you are interested in participating, we welcome you to contact us using any of the following:

Email: office@ocya.nl.ca
Telephone: 709-753-3888
Toll Free: 1-877-753-3888
Text: 709-682- OCYA (6292)

In-Person: 193 LeMarchant Road, Suite 100, St. John’s

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Media contact
Wilma MacInnis
Office of the Child and Youth Advocate
709-753-3888
wilmamacinnis@ocya.nl.ca