Learn about the Workers' Advocate Office

We're experienced in providing advocacy services, and are specialists in interpreting the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act and policies. We're completely independent from the Yukon Workers' Safety and Compensation Board Safety Board (YWSCB) and report to the Department of Justice. 

Read our brochure for more information.

What are the costs?

Our services are free.

Our services

Advice

We provide advice to injured workers and their dependents about their Yukon Workers' Safety and Compensation Board claim.

Advocacy

We'll work with you to prepare and present an appeal on your behalf, if:

• your claim meets the criteria for reconsideration or appeal to the tribunal; and
• you wish to appeal a board decision about your claim. 

Appeal process information

We provide information on the steps involved in the board reconsideration or tribunal appeal process.

Appeal representation

Representation by the Workers’ Advocate Office is available at various levels of the appeal process.

We can assist with representation before:

• a reconsideration officer; or
• the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Appeal Tribunal.

We'll try to resolve your issue with the Yukon Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board in an informal way before filing a reconsideration or appeal.

About the workers' advocate

The workers' advocate is appointed by the Minister of Justice to advocate on behalf of injured workers.

The workers' advocate is a member of the public service. They are appointed to fulfil the duties outlined in section 152 of the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act.

The main duty of the workers' advocate is to advise workers and the dependents of deceased workers on:

• entitlement under the legislation and policy;
• the interpretation of board decisions; and
• determining whether a reconsideration or appeal is supported by evidence and if so represent workers at reconsideration or appeal.

They can also provide information on workers' rights and responsibilities.

How the advocates can help you

• Provide general information about the workers' compensation process, including:
  • explaining the legislation and policies of the Yukon Workers' Compensation Health and Safety Board;
  • identifying important timelines for the appeal process;
  • directing workers' to other relevant organizations, such as unions or employment standards.
• Advise injured workers on what actions they can take. 
• Help to gather the necessary information.
• Determine if there's a problem with a claim that can be resolved through a reconsideration or appeal.
• Prepare and present reconsiderations and appeals.