Victoria and west shore Child and Youth Advocacy Centres

Child and Youth Advocacy Centres (CYACs) are child-focused centres that provide a coordinated approach to cases of reported child abuse. A team of professionals, including law enforcement, victim services, and child protection workers, work together to support children, youth, and caregivers who access the centre to ensure that they feel safe, informed, and supported. This multidisciplinary approach allows for seamless support and communication between police, MCFD, and support services in complex child abuse cases. 

The Child and Youth Advocacy Centre provides safe, welcoming, child-friendly, and trauma-informed environment. The Centre connects children, youth, and caregivers with a Victim Service worker immediately who will support them throughout the process. 

The CYAC model is based on the principle that the needs of children and youth should come first when cases of child abuse are investigated and prosecuted.  

When you arrive at the centre, you will be greeted by your Victim Service worker. Your Victim Service worker is here to support you and answer any questions you may have. You will wait in the soft room ~ a comfortable space to get settled before your interview. Parents and caregivers can wait here too. The detective working on the case will meet you in the soft room, introduce themself and invite you to the interview room. You can expect a safe space with people to support you and answer any questions you may have. There are snacks, water, and washrooms available if you need. After the interview, the detective and your victim service worker will meet with you to tell you the next steps. You may also meet with a child protection worker. If you have any questions at any time, ask your victim service worker.