What is a Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC)?

A Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) is a child-centred, trauma-informed place where children, youth, and their families can access coordinated support following abuse or violence.

CYACs bring together professionals from multiple systems, such as child protection, police, healthcare, victim services, and mental health, to work as a team in one location. This approach reduces the number of times a child or youth has to tell their story and helps ensure responses are timely, coordinated, and focused on the child’s well-being.

At a CYAC, children and youth are supported in a safe, welcoming environment. Families receive guidance, information, and ongoing support throughout the process.

CYACs aim to improve outcomes for children and youth by promoting safety, healing, and justice through collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based practice.