UNDERSTAND YOUR RIGHTS

As a child, youth, or young person receiving services under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, (CYFSA) you have rights that must be respected and a voice that must be heard. Furthermore, the Government of Ontario acknowledges that the aim of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 is to be consistent with and build upon the principles expressed in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

You do not have to earn these rights, and no one can take them away from you.

The word services appear throughout this page. There are many different types of services under the Child, Youth, and Family Services Act, 2017. Some examples are:

  • services for children with developmental or physical disabilities or their families
  • mental health services for children or their families
  • services that are related to residential care for children
  • services for children or their families who are or may be in need of protection
  • services that are related to adoption
  • counseling for a child or for a child’s family
  • services that support children and families or help prevent child abuse and neglect
  • services and programs for young persons involved in the youth justice system

The Children and Young Persons’ Rights Resource can help you:

  • understand your rights included in part two (also known as part II) and part ten (also known as part X) of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017
  • know where to go or who you can talk to if you have questions about your rights
  • know what to do if you feel that a service provider is not respecting your rights

Your rights might be different depending on the types of services that you receive under the Child, Youth, and Family Services Act, 2017. Choose the section of rights that is best for you.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE OMBUDSMAN
What can the Ombudsman’s office do? They can help people with their complaints about Ontario government bodies. This includes children’s aid societies, foster homes and group homes, mental health treatment centers, and youth custody facilities. They can also take complaints about school boards, colleges and universities, social services, and many other things.

Contact the Ontario Ombudsman
1-800-263-2841,
cy-ej@ombudsman.on.ca
www.ombudsman.on.ca