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There are three staff members working full-time at the Centre:

  • Two Child & Family Advocates 
  • One Clinical Director and Trauma Therapist

The Centre consists of the following:

  • Advocates Office
  • Counselling Office
  • Child-Friendly Interview Room
  • Medical Examination Room
  • Residential Space 
  • Kitchen
  • Waiting Room

Our Partners

Working with us at the Centre are the Royal Canadian Mounted Police – Special Investigation Team, the Department of Family Services, and the Department of Health. The RCMP and Family Services conduct the forensic interviews. These officers and social workers are trained and specialized in working with children. Pediatricians from Qikiqtani General Hospital are available for forensic medical examinations as well as reassurance exams and check-ups.

The Memorandum of Understanding allows an exchange of information between:

  • The Government of Nunavut – Departments of Justice, Health, Education and Family Services;
  • The Umingmak Centre;
  • The Royal Canadian Mounted Police – “V” Division;
  • Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

How Does a Case get to the Umingmak Centre?

Due to the duty to report, a disclosure has to be reported to CFS or RCMP.

Once this report is made, CFS or RCMP must do a brief investigation to determine if the reported abuse occurred, or may not have been possible. If they determine that NO abuse occurred, then the case is closed. If they determine that YES, it is possible that the abuse occurred or is happening, they will activate the Umingmak Pathway, and we will receive the referral from them.

 

 

 

 

 

Once the Umingmak Centre receives a referral, an appointment is made with the child and non-offending caregiver at the Umingmak Centre. 

  • Evidence Collection: Interview – RCMP officers (out of uniform) and CFS workers, both trained in child specific interviewing, will do a recorded interview with the individual who has disclosed abuse. Physical Evidence – If needed, a Pediatrician will do an exam to collect physical evidence to strengthen the chance of a conviction in court.

  • Support Services: Advocate – An advocate is assigned to a client and their non-offending caregiver to provide support through the entire process. Trauma Therapy – This includes one-on-one therapy, group sessions and consultations with specialists. Non-offending caregivers are offered support through group sessions and involvement in their child’s one-on-one therapy. Reassurance Exam – a physical exam by one of our Pediatricians can be requested to ensure that the child’s body is okay, and allows a chance for the child or the non-offending caregiver to ask questions to a medical professional.