Family Advisory

Children's Healthcare Canada recognizes that family partners, meaning parents, caregivers, and those with lived experience supporting children through the healthcare system, bring essential expertise to the work of improving child and youth health systems. Their insights reflect what it truly means to navigate care for a child, and that knowledge shapes better systems, stronger policies, and more meaningful outcomes for families across Canada.

For years, family partners have been part of CHC's work. As our organization has grown and evolved, so too has our understanding of what meaningful family engagement looks like. Families have told us clearly: they want a focused purpose, genuine influence, and real opportunities to shape the work. The Family Advisory was built in response: a refreshed, strategic structure designed to ensure family voices are not just heard but reflected in what CHC does and how we do it.

What the Advisory Does

Advisory members contribute their expertise by adjudicating CHC's Family and Person-Centred Care Award, advising on SPARK Impact initiatives, supporting a podcast mini-series, and providing input on events, publications, and policy development. Members may also serve as spokespeople in public conversations about child health.

How We Work Together

The Advisory meets virtually on a quarterly basis, with additional touchpoints as CHC initiatives require. Members commit to listening actively, staying systems-focused, contributing constructively, and creating a space grounded in trust, respect, and inclusion.