WHAT HAPPENED?
The Ombudsman’s office received an email from a youth in a desperate situation regarding her court ordered guardian. She said there were conditions in the court order that affected her, but she believed her interests were not being considered and she was at risk of harm and abuse. The youth felt no one was listening to her.
WHAT DID THE OMBUDSMAN’S OFFICE DO?
Given the complaint was from a vulnerable youth who was looking for our help, the investigator made it a priority to respond as soon as possible. While we cannot investigate decisions made by the court, nor can we provide legal advice or advocate on behalf of an individual, the investigator determined that the most appropriate place for her was the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA). This is an independent legislative office that “advocates on behalf of children and youth receiving child intervention services or who are involved with the youth justice system…” OCYA supports vulnerable young people and can help provide access to legal representation.
WHAT WAS THE OUTCOME?
The Ombudsman investigator responded quickly to the youth, explained our role, and suggested she contact the OCYA. In doing so, the investigator directed the young person to the office that would best provide her with the specific assistance she was looking for.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
The Ombudsman’s office has a broad mandate, and we are proud of our intake team and excellent referral services. If someone comes to us with a concern that is outside of our mandate, we always strive to provide the appropriate referral information. In this case, the youth did not know where to turn, but the investigator was able to use their knowledge of other offices, agencies, and resources to point the youth in the right direction.