TORONTO, Jan. 4, 2017 /CNW/ - The Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children released its 2015-2016 Annual Report today, which details a wide range of issues and concerns brought forward by young people that highlight the gap between the promises made by the province's service and resource delivery system, and the lived realities of many children, youth and their families in Ontario.
"The Annual Report is the product of our partnership with young people in our mandate who, day-in and day-out, demonstrate incredible resilience and strength in overcoming barriers in their lives," said Irwin Elman, Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth. "The Annual Report provides an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of young people's roles as our working partners in leading the change they want to see in their lives."
Last month, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services proposed the modernized Child, Youth and Family Services Act which, among other things, places young people at the centre of all decision-making in legislation, policy and services provided to them. This, Elman says, is the product of years of hard work by young people demanding that they be heard on matters affecting their lives and wellbeing.
"Our partnership with young people and other child advocates across the province has brought Ontario to the cusp of significant change in 2017," said Elman. "We will continue to push for a province where all children and youth receive what they need – when they need it – in order to thrive."
To access a copy of the 2015-2016 Annual Report, please visit: http://provincialadvocate.on.ca/documents/en/2016-annual-report.pdf
About the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth
The Office of the Provincial Advocate reports directly to the Legislature and provides an independent voice for children and youth, including children with special needs and First Nations children. The advocates receive and respond to concerns from children, youth and families who are seeking or receiving services under the Child and Family Services Act and the Education Act (Provincial and Demonstration Schools).
The Office is guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and has a strong commitment to youth involvement. For more information, visit: www.provincialadvocate.on.ca. For updates, read the Advocate's Blog and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
SOURCE Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth
Media Contact: Akihiko Tse, Communications, Media Relations Coordinator, (416)-325-5994, [email protected], Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth
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