Information for Family Services Providers
In this section of the website, you will find information about the programs and services offered by the Family Services department as well as expectations for those working in family services.
About Family Services in Nunavut
On April 1, 2013, the Government of Nunavut established the Department of Family Services (DFS) to consolidate programs and services from six government departments and agencies to support children, youth, and families.
The Child and Family Services Act was revised in 2013 to allow it to be interpreted according to Inuit societal values. Other changes in the Act included an updated protocol for the government’s response when a child dies in its care and an expansion of the requirement to report a child in need of protection. The revised Act received royal assent in May 2013. In September 2013, the Representative for Children and Youth Act received royal assent. This Act establishes the appointment of an official representative to advocate for the rights and interests of children and youth.
The Government of Nunavut’s Department of Family Services brings together programs and services that support children, youth, and families. The Dept. of Family Services follows a core set of values:
Values of the Department of Family Services
- We believe in respectful, nurturing relationships and caring for people.
- We believe that Nunavummiut should have access to supports and programs.
- We believe in a shared responsibility to encourage and support self-reliance.
Programs and Services
The Department of Family Services offers the following programs and services:
Family Wellness
Understand the importance of cultural competency when working with families from different backgrounds.
Income Assistance
Explore the impact of intergenerational trauma and how it affects family dynamics in Nunavut.
Career Development
Learn about community-based programs and services available to support families in Nunavut.
Poverty Reduction
Discover effective communication strategies for building trust and rapport with families.
For more information on the Department of Family Services and its programs, please visit Department of Family Services | Government of Nunavut.
Office of the Public Guardian
The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) provides a range of support services to vulnerable Nunavummiut through its Guardianship Program. The Public Guardian is responsible for ensuring the health and wellbeing of Nunavummiut how, in the eyes of the Court, are unable to make decisions for themselves.
Expectations in a Family Services Setting
Learn about what is expected of professionals working in the family services sector in Nunavut. Get strategies and tips for meeting and interacting with clients and learn about the role of interpreters.
How to Make Referrals to Mental Health Supports
Find out the avenues for referring community members to timely mental health and addictions services should get it.
Resources
Find valuable resources for family services providers.
