Existing challenges

The programs identified through this scan offer invaluable information, support, navigation, and sometimes advice to clients involved in many areas of the justice system. While the 27 examined programs offer a variety of services to many demographics, there remain significant gaps. For example, there was a lack of programs that provide specialized services for members of different communities such as 2SLGBTQI+, linguistic minorities, persons with disabilities, and immigrants or newcomers to Canada. These groups may need wraparound services (i.e. where multiple services are offered at one location) or additional support while navigating the justice system.

Many of the examined programs did not provide information on the languages spoken or on the need to request translation services. People involved in the legal system who are not fluent in English or French would benefit from services offered in other languages.

There were limited navigator programs available in the territories, which may point to either the need to develop navigator programs in the territories or the need to provide more information online on the programs available.

A significant barrier to accessing justice in Canada is that many individuals may earn too much money to qualify for legal aid, but cannot afford to pay for legal representation on their own. The websites of many navigator programs examined in this scan did not explicitly identify financial eligibility criteria for accessing services. It may be beneficial for navigator programs with financial requirements for eligibility to clearly state these requirements on program websites, and suggest alternate programs based on financial need.

By addressing some of the challenges identified in this scan, navigator programs could better serve the needs of the clients in their jurisdictions.