About
SeaStar is a safe, welcoming place, where different agencies and services work together to improve the way our community responds to concerns of child abuse.
As a leader in Atlantic Canada, SeaStar’s innovative approach brings together professionals from law enforcement, child welfare, health care, mental health, and justice systems. Our aim is to create one integrated approach to investigation, assessment, and treatment of suspected violence or abuse.
Referrals
SeaStar does not take direct referrals. Referrals to SeaStar are made by the Department of Community Services or Mi’kmaw Family & Children’s Services, or police.
If you are concerned that a child or youth is at risk, contact the Department of Community Services or Mi’kmaw Family & Children’s Services office where the child lives. After regular business hours, call 1 (866) 922-2434.
When a child is referred to SeaStar, we may offer:
- Coordinated, one-stop services
- Welcoming environment, designed specifically for children and youth
- Calm, comfortable interview room
- Specialized medical assessment (if needed)
- Personalized, ongoing support from a child and youth advocate
- Help assessing options for mental health services
- Enhanced communication across agencies
About Child and Youth Advocacy Centres
SeaStar is one of many Child and Youth Advocacy Centres (CYACs) across Canada, and is a member of the National and Atlantic Networks of CYACs. Learn more about the work of CYACs in Canada.
Note that a Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, like SeaStar, is not the same as an Office of the Child Advocate. While the names are similar and both work to advance the best interests of children, their mandates are different and separate.