Child and Youth Advocacy Centres

Child and Youth Advocacy Centres (CYACs) are child-focused centres providing a coordinated approach to cases of reported child abuse. A team of professionals, including law enforcement, victim services, and child protection workers, collaborate to ensure children, youth, and family members who access the centres feel safe, informed, and supported. This multidisciplinary approach allows for seamless support and communication between police, the Ministry of Children and Family Development, and support services in complex child abuse cases. 

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 one of our CYACs, you will find a safe, welcoming, child-friendly, and trauma-informed environment. You will be connected with a Victim Service worker who will be able 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. 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. After the interview, the detective and your Victim Services 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, your Victims Services work is there to support you.