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About Us The Office of the New Brunswick Advocate is dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights and interests of children, youth, vulnerable adults, and older adults. Meet the Advocate ADVOCATE Kelly Lamrock Kelly Lamrock has been the New Brunswick Advocate since February 7, 2022. He is a long-time Fredericton resident who has a background in law and education, having served as a lawyer, politician, policy director, and educator. He served as an MLA, held multiple ministerial roles in New Brunswick, chaired the Council of Ministers of Education, and worked internationally in education and democratic development. Following politics, he ran a legal practice and contributed to various community organizations. He’s also active in theater, stand-up comedy, and sports coaching. Our Team Led by the Advocate, our team includes specialists in individual advocacy, public relations, legal affairs, investigations, government relations, and community outreach. With dedicated professionals in research, policy, and advocacy, we work to advance systemic change while providing direct support to individuals. Our work is centered around three key areas: Individual Case Advocacy: Our team of 12 Individual Case Specialists provides direct advocacy and support to individuals, ensuring their rights and needs are recognized and addressed. Systemic Reports and Reviews: Through research, reviews, investigations, and public reporting, we analyze systemic issues and make recommendations to improve laws, policies, and services. Public Relations, Education, and Community Outreach: We engage with communities, service providers, and government to promote awareness of rights and best practices in advocacy. Ways We Help Individual Advocacy Systemic Reviews Recommendation Monitoring We develop recommendations based on individual case investigations and systemic reports. These recommendations aim to address complaints about service delivery and promote the rights and interests of the people we support. In April 2022, the Advocate launched a recommendation monitoring process to help influence government decisions. This process allows us to track how authorities respond to our recommendations and ensures we have the data needed to report to the Legislative Assembly. Recommendation Monitoring Process Quick Resolution Many requests can be resolved by providing information, support, and guidance to empower individuals to self-advocate, or other short-term interventions to address issues and barriers. Complex Advocacy Complex advocacy cases arise when issues span multiple systems or resources are lacking. These cases may require in-depth examination of facts, questions to authorities, review of practices, policies, or laws, mediation, case conferences, or formal recommendations. Sometimes when people call us for support, it's because they don’t know how to address a problem they are facing. They may not know their options, who to talk to, or what steps to take. Individual Advocacy at our office falls into two categories. If we notice trends in the advocacy cases we are receiving, we may open a Systemic Advocacy Case and conduct a Systemic Review. The goal of a Systemic Review is to make recommendations aimed at broad change in policy, practice, and legislation. Recommendations can be made to various authorities (such as Departments of Government, Regional Health Authorities, District Education Councils, long-term care facilities). Read our Systemic Reviews Our Mandate The New Brunswick Advocate ensures that the rights of children, youth, vulnerable adults, and older adults are understood, protected, and promoted. We are independent of any department of the New Brunswick Government and operate under the authority of the Child, Youth, and Senior Advocate Act. Read the Act Get a better understanding on the full scope of the Office of the New Brunswick Advocate. Read Online 5 Advocating for Rights 1 Protecting Rights 2 Amplifying Voices 4 Advising Authorities 3 Ensuring Service Access 2024 2024 Unified Brand We’ve launched a new logo and website, uniting the Child, Youth, and Seniors’ mandates under one brand. 2024 Unified Brand We’ve launched a new logo and website, uniting the Child, Youth, and Seniors’ mandates under one brand. 2021 2021 New Advocate Kelly Lamrock was appointed as the new Child, Youth & Seniors’ Advocate, bringing a renewed focus to the role. 2021 New Advocate Kelly Lamrock was appointed as the new Child, Youth & Seniors’ Advocate, bringing a renewed focus to the role. 2018 - 2019 2018 - 2019 Branding A fresh new logo and website were launched for the Seniors’ Advocate Office. 2018 - 2019 Branding A fresh new logo and website were launched for the Seniors’ Advocate Office. 2016 2016 Expanded Act The Act was expanded to become the Child, Youth & Seniors Advocate Act, giving the office a new mandate to serve a wider community. 2016 Expanded Act The Act was expanded to become the Child, Youth & Seniors Advocate Act, giving the office a new mandate to serve a wider community. 2013 2013 Second Advocate Norman Bossé was appointed as the new Child and Youth Advocate. 2013 Second Advocate Norman Bossé was appointed as the new Child and Youth Advocate. 2012 2012 Independent Office The Child and Youth Advocate became an independent office, separate from the Ombud. 2012 Independent Office The Child and Youth Advocate became an independent office, separate from the Ombud. 2007 2007 New Legislation New legislation came into effect: the Child and Youth Advocate Act. 2007 New Legislation New legislation came into effect: the Child and Youth Advocate Act. 2006 2006 The First Advocate The Child and Youth Advocate legislation was introduced, and Ombud NB took on responsibility for this important role. Bernard Richard became New Brunswick’s first Child and Youth Advocate. 2006 The First Advocate The Child and Youth Advocate legislation was introduced, and Ombud NB took on responsibility for this important role. Bernard Richard became New Brunswick’s first Child and Youth Advocate. 2024 2021 2018 - 2019 2016 2013 2012 2007 2006 Our History Follow us on social media and stay connected Meet the Advocate Our Team Ways We Help Our Mandate Our History Back to Top

Overview Current Challenges Past Challenges Overview Each challenge follows a structured three-year cycle designed to drive meaningful change. This cycle ensures that our work is thoughtful, collaborative, and focused on long-term outcomes. 1 Identify We begin by pinpointing a critical public issue that needs attention. 2 Research & Collaborate Through in-depth research and active engagement with stakeholders, we explore the issue from all angles. 3 Recommend Based on our findings, we develop and present informed recommendations to government and key decision-makers. 4 Monitor We then track the implementation and impact of these recommendations, ensuring accountability and continued progress. What is the Three Challenges Initiative? The Three Challenges Initiative was launched in 2024 in response to the 2023 State of the Child Report, which identified key issues affecting New Brunswick’s children and youth. The initiative is designed to: Explore and document challenges through Challenge Papers Convene stakeholders, experts, and community members for forums and workshops Develop actionable solutions in Call to Action Reports Maintain focus on past challenges by periodically monitoring report recommendations

Overview Community Spotlights Networking Hub Resources Overview What are Child-Friendly Communities? Child Friendly Communities are places where children’s rights, voices, and well-being are prioritized in local decision-making. Through child-focused policies, programs, and partnerships, municipalities play a vital role in creating safe and inclusive spaces where all young people are heard and valued. Achieving this vision requires strong collaboration between municipalities, families, schools, service providers, and, most importantly, young people themselves. Show leadership Strengthen your community Children and youth at the heart of local decision-making Make a lasting impact Why are Child-Friendly Communities Needed? Children and youth today are growing up in the midst of an epidemic of loneliness and a mental health crisis that many have never experienced before and are often left out of the decisions that shape their lives. A Child Friendly Community recognizes that it takes a village to raise a child and ensures that children and youth are involved in the conversations and decisions that shape their neighbourhoods, services and futures. Formal commitment to children and youth well-being. Recognition as a leader in advancing children and youth rights. Stronger community partnerships and collaboration. United civic action around child and youth development and shared responsibility. Dedication to ensuring the participation of unrepresented children and youth. Inclusive public policies shaped by the voices of young people. Community pride and belonging, helping to retain and attract families. Benefits of Becoming a Child-Friendly Community

Supporting Children & Youth in New Brunswick Get Help Now How We Help We Protect Rights We respond when a young person’s rights are being ignored or violated — at home, in care, at school, or in the community. We Amplify Voices We provide advice to government departments, schools, health authorities, care providers, and others to improve how they treat and support children and youth. We Ensure Service Access We help make sure young people get the services they need and are entitled to — whether that’s health care, education, protective care or any other service. We Advise Authorities We make sure children and youth are heard in decisions that affect them — especially when others speak over or for them. Learn More Message From the Advocate Children and Youth need someone on their side to ensure they get treated fairly. Kelly Lamrock, New Brunswick Advocate About the Advocate What to Expect We know asking for help isn't easy. Here's how we'll support you - step by step. 1 You reach out to us by phone, message, or email - whatever is easiest for you. 2 A friendly Individual Case Specialist will get back to you within 2 business days to talk more about what’s going on and how we might help. 3 We’ll share information to help you understand your rights and options. If possible, we’ll guide you in speaking up for yourself. 4 If that’s not enough, we can talk to the people or departments involved and help challenge decisions that don’t seem fair. Having trouble accessing services? We are here to help - especially when systems fail or feel overwhelming. Your information will be kept confidential. Contact Us Updates & News Spotlight Reports REPORT Children Cut First The Office of the New Brunswick Advocate publishes the first installment of its 2025-26 budget review, concerning funding for child welfare services. Read Child Well-Being Assessment Document Nov 19, 2025 Featured What We All Want: Recommendation Monitoring Report Document Oct 1, 2025 Featured Wake Up Call Document Sep 15, 2025 Featured Featured Reports View All Our Reports Frequently Asked Questions Children Friendly General Vulnerable Adults Older Adults Children & Youth What does the Office of the New Brunswick Advocate do? The Advocate works to protect and promote the rights and interests of children, youth, vulnerable adults, and older adults by ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) How can the Advocate help older adults? We assist older adults in resolving issues related to long-term care, healthcare services, housing, elder abuse, and more. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) How can the Advocate help vulnerable adults? We assist vulnerable adults in resolving issues related to accessing disability services, healthcare services, housing, abuse, and more. We advocate for fair treatment and respect. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) How can the Advocate help children and youth? We assist children and youth in resolving issues related to accessing education, healthcare, mental health services, child protection, and more. We advocate for their rights, fair treatment, and well-being, ensuring their voices are heard and respected. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Who can contact the Office of the New Brunswick Advocate? Anyone can and should contact our office, including individuals affected by a problem or family members, caregivers, government employees, and service providers who want to report a problem faced by someone else. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Is this service confidential? Yes, all information shared with our office is kept confidential, and the Office of the New Brunswick Advocate has legal powers to ensure that all information is protected. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) How do I reach out for help? You can reach out to us by phone, email, or by submitting a request through our website. We’ll guide you through the process and let you know the next steps. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What kind of issues can the Advocate help with? We help with issues related to services like healthcare, education, child protection, criminal justice, care for older adults, adult protection, housing, and disability services. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What happens after I contact the Advocate's office? After contacting us, we’ll listen to your concerns, review the situation, and determine how we can assist. We may offer guidance, give advice for you to self-advocate, help resolve the issue, or advocate on your behalf. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Who is the New Brunswick Advocate? Kelly Lamrock has been the New Brunswick Advocate since February 7, 2022. Learn more about him here. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What can't the Advocate do? We don’t provide legal advice, but we can guide you on your rights and connect you with other resources or organizations that can assist you legally. We can't force the government to act or change its decisions; we work to influence decisions by making recommendations, highlighting issues, and advocating for change. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Is the Advocate's office bilingual? Yes, we offer services, support, and resources in both official languages! Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What should I do if I am concerned about the care an older adult is receiving? If you’re worried about an older adult's care or rights being violated, contact us. We can look into the situation and help address the problem. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What should I do if I am experiencing discrimination because of my age? If you believe you were experiencing discrimination in any way, contact us so we can learn more about your situation. We will see if we can help, or direct you towards another service that can. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) The amount of my financial contribution rate determined by the Department to live in a Nursing Home or a Special Care Home, is too high in relation to my revenue. Can you help? Our office can contact the Department of Social Development and review the reasons your contribution is evaluated at this rate and ask for justification. The Advocate can request that your contribution rate be changed. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) My request for repairs or renovations to my home has been refused by The Department of Social Development, can you help? Our office can discuss the matter with the Department, Housing Division, and review the criteria used to deny your request and advocate for a reversal of the decision on your behalf. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What should I do if I am concerned about the care a vulnerable adult is receiving? If you’re worried about a vulnerable adult's care or rights being violated, contact us. We can look into the situation and help address the problem. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What should I do if I am experiencing discrimination because of my disability? Reach out to us. We will ask some questions to learn more about your experience and see if we can help. If we can't, we will direct you to other supports and services. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What should I do if I am concerned about the care a child or youth is receiving? If you’re worried about a child or youth's care or rights being violated, contact us. We can look into the situation and help address the problem. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What is an advocate? An advocate is someone who can speak up and provide a voice for someone else. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Who is the Advocate? The Advocate's name is Kelly Lamrock. Check out this video to learn more about him: Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) I'm a child or youth - can I contact the office myself? Absolutely! We’re here for you, and you can contact us directly anytime. If you need help, it's also ok to ask an adult you trust to reach out for you or with you. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) What can I expect if I contact the Advocate's office? You can expect to connect with someone who will take you seriously and listen to your concerns. There is no need to be nervous or shy to reach out - we're here to help. We will listen to you, ask you some questions to understand your situation, and work with you on a solution. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Will you tell anyone that I reached out to you? No—everything you tell us is private. We will only share information if you are in immediate danger, and we will tell you what we are doing and saying. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) How can the Advocate help children and youth? We advocate for the rights, fair treatment and well-being of children and youth, ensuring their voices are heard and respected. Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Still have questions? Reach out to us. We are here to help. Remember, there are no wrong questions! Edited in CMS (FAQ Collection) Looking for other supports & services in New Brunswick? Other Supports Edited in CMS (Menu Pages Collection) Follow us on social media and stay connected Subscribe to our Newsletter You'll receive the latest updates on our advocacy efforts, important news, and events that matter to you. Join our community and be the first to know about opportunities to get involved and make a difference. SUBSCRIBE View the April 2024 Newsletter (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) Date View (PDF) View Past Newsletters Visit Our Child-Friendly Site Visit Now How We Help Message From the Advocate What to Expect Get Help Updates & News FAQ Back to Top

Partners The Centre for Best Practices is proud to partner with: About the Centre The Centre for Best Practices was established in 2024 as a key resource within the Office of the New Brunswick Advocate, strengthening the province's advocacy framework. The Centre's work is grounded in: Research and data analysis to understand issues at their root Consultation with experts and stakeholders to explore solutions Collaboration with non-profits, the business community, government, and those with lived experience The Centre works alongside the Advocate to address systemic issues before they reach crisis points, ensuring that children, youth, seniors, and vulnerable adults in New Brunswick receive the support and opportunities they deserve. Purpose Vision A society where collaboration among governments, communities, organizations, and those with lived experience leads to policy solutions that improve the well-being of children, youth, and older adults. Mission To promote best practices and support the creation of effective policy solutions for children, youth, and older adults through research and community collaboration. Values Innovative thinking: Forward-thinking approaches to persistent challenges. Evidence- and rights-based decision-making: Advocacy and recommendations are informed by the latest research and guided by a commitment to fundamental rights, ensuring the development of fair and effective policies. Collaboration and action: Engage a wide range of partners to translate research into real-world solutions, driving meaningful and lasting change for communities. The Centre's strategic plan is focused on four key pillars. Advocacy and Outreach Elevate voices of children, youth, and vulnerable populations by engaging key partners for policy change. Research and Data-Driven Insights Lead and support evidence- and rights-based research initiatives to drive informed policy development. Multi-Sector Collaboration Strengthen multisector collaboration to address critical challenges and co-design solutions. Knowledge Transfer and Best Practices Establish a central hub for sharing research, promoting best practices, and fostering collective learning.

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Was this article helpful? Share Share Downloads Text in this article Copy Images in this article Download Share on Social Media Share Le défenseur des enfants, des jeunes et des aînés, Kelly Lamrock, a publié un rapport à la suite d’une enquête portant sur les 1,46 million $ versés par la Société de développement régional à Village of Hope pour l’agrandissement d’un centre de rétablissement pour les personnes souffrant de troubles liés à la consommation de substances. Le rapport a été rédigé conformément au mandat du défenseur en vertu de la Loi sur le défenseur des enfants, des jeunes et des aînés en vue d’examiner les mesures gouvernementales touchant les adultes vulnérables. Le rapport soulève des préoccupations concernant le recours aux processus politisés de la Société de développement régional pour prendre des décisions sur le financement des services sociaux, ainsi que le manque d’attention accordée à l’allongement des listes d’attente pour des services de traitement des dépendances. M. Lamrock a indiqué que la société, en tant qu’organisme de développement économique, n’est pas outillée pour gérer le financement des services sociaux et les considérations liées aux politiques. Il est clair que le processus de la Société de développement régional n’a pas tenu compte des répercussions possibles du transfert de la capacité de traitement des dépendances vers des services confessionnels sans examen adéquat de la capacité globale du système. L’accélération des services confessionnels au moyen d’un processus politique tout en omettant de s’attaquer aux listes d’attente pour des services réglementés et fondés sur des données probantes peut empêcher les personnes qui cherchent de l’aide de réellement exercer un consentement libre et éclairé. Le gouvernement doit s’assurer que les programmes sociaux sont financés et gérés par les ministères ayant l’expertise nécessaire pour les superviser. Le défenseur a dit que Village of Hope avait agi de bonne foi dans le cadre du processus de demande, et que le manque de diligence raisonnable était un échec de la part du gouvernement. Dans son rapport, le défenseur demande également au gouvernement d’assurer une meilleure surveillance réglementaire des centres de traitement des dépendances privés et d’améliorer le processus d’agrément de ces établissement s’il veut diriger des personnes vulnérables vers ces centres pour y recevoir des soins. Le rapport fait état du recours au travail non rémunéré et à des conditions de vie supervisées dans le modèle de traitement en place à Village of Hope, ainsi que du décalage entre les services gouvernementaux qui facilitent les placements sans disposer d’aucun mécanisme pour en assurer la sécurité. « Il n’y a aucune preuve d’actes répréhensibles de la part de Village of Hope, a affirmé M. Lamrock. Cependant, ses activités – comme de nombreux services sociaux – placent les exploitants du centre dans une position de grand pouvoir sur des personnes vulnérables. Ces modèles nécessitent une surveillance rigoureuse pour assurer la sécurité et l’efficacité. À l’heure actuelle, plusieurs ministères semblent orienter des personnes vulnérables vers Village of Hope, sans pour autant assumer la responsabilité d’un contrôle visant à éviter l’exploitation. Cela crée un scénario troublant où les ministères en savent juste assez pour utiliser le programme, mais pas suffisamment pour être responsables si quelque chose tourne mal. » Le défenseur recommande notamment de clarifier le rôle de la Société de développement régional en ce qui concerne le financement des programmes et services sociaux; de s’attaquer aux temps d’attente pour des services de traitement des dépendances; et de mettre en place un processus de réglementation et d’agrément de tout établissement privé vers lequel le gouvernement oriente des patients ou dont il facilite l’accès. « Des fonds publics importants ont été dépensés pour une ressource publique limitée sans que des efforts suffisants aient été déployés pour veiller à ce que les fonds répondent à l’intérêt public général, a dit M. Lamrock. Les services privés sont passés devant les autres, et ce, sans contrôle adéquat visant à protéger à la fois les personnes à la recherche d’un traitement et le contribuable. » APRIL 9, 2024 5 MIN TO READ SHARE Dec 5, 2024 3 min read SHARE Latest News Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit in sed dui nibh. Sed ut rutrum turpis sit amen consectetur... Category Featured Share on Social Media Share Downloads Text in this article Copy Images in this article Download Article Credits This is 16px paragraph text. Edit the text then connect it to a theme so it will match the site. About Us This is 16px paragraph text. Edit the text then connect it to a theme so it will match the site. Category Manque de responsabilisation et de diligence raisonnable dans le financement d’un centre de traitement des dépendances privé, selon le défenseur. Newsroom

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Test First Name | Prénom Last Name | Nom de famille Email | Courriel Organization | Organisation I will be attending the press conference | Je participerai à la conférence de presse I would like to receive an embrago copy of the report | Je souhaite recevoir une copie sous embargo du rapport le Submit | Soumettre

Legal guidance memorandum on the rights of students with disability in the context of inclusive education in New Brunswick CATEGORY Title Tag line Description 00:00 / 01:04 TAGS Tag 01 Tag 02 CTA 1 Share Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Resource Centre Category Page Title

The Office of the New Brunswick Advocate has tabled its follow-up report to the Legislative Assembly on concerns raised about child welfare funding in the 2025–26 provincial budget. While government declined to reverse budget reductions, it accepted two key recommendations from the Advocate, clarifying that cost-control measures will target only high-cost cases and protecting other child welfare services from cuts. The report outlines new commitments to safeguard funding for vulnerable children, strengthen Integrated Service Delivery, and improve accountability. CATEGORY Title Tag line Description 00:00 / 01:04 TAGS Tag 01 Tag 02 CTA 1 Share Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Resource Centre Category Page Title

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