About us

The Workers’ Advisor Office (WAO) is separate and independent from Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) and here to help workers and their families navigate the WSCC system. This is a free and confidential service open to anyone with questions about the workers compensation system in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

We help provide support and solutions at the case management level first but can also represent workers in the Review and Appeal processes (where there is merit).

The WAO provides a range of supports and assistance to workers injured in the Northwest Territories or Nunavut. These services may include:

• Obtaining information from the WSCC on your behalf;
• Helping clients communicate with the WSCC;
• Explaining the WSCC process and decisions;
• Reviewing file evidence, and obtaining further evidence that may be necessary to support your case;
• Assisting you to prepare and present submissions to all WSCC decision-making levels; and
• Referring clients to other community services.

The WAO can assist any injured worker or their family members who are seeking assistance or information about their WSCC claim and you are able to contact the WAO at any stage of the WSCC process. While we do not have direct access to WSCC systems, we can speak to general policy and legislation during our initial discussions and if we need to obtain your file from WSCC, we are able to do so with your consent.

The WAO reserves the right to decline to further assist a client if it is clear there are no grounds on which to further their case. This may be the result of lack of medical evidence, or a lack of statutory entitlement.

What can you expect from us?

• We will provide a safe and respectful environment for you to share your perspective.
• We will be honest with you, the WSCC, the Appeals Tribunal, and other relevant parties.
• We will review and assess your claim(s) and explain relevant WSCC legislation and policy.
• We will explain the WSCC claims and appeal processes and provide advice on the options available to you.
• We will assist in gathering and assembling relevant evidence to prepare an appeal submission when appropriate.
• We will represent you at all levels of the appeal process, including at an Appeals Tribunal hearing where there is merit.
• We will respect your privacy, subject to the applicable laws.

What we cannot do?

• We cannot guarantee an outcome from WSCC or the Appeals Tribunal.
• We will not represent someone who already has a formal representative.
• We will not break the law, further unethical or frivolous conduct, or abuse the workers’ compensation process.

What do we expect from you?

• Treat the WAO team with respect.
• Provide the information that WAO staff request.
• Provide WAO with any updates in your medical status, or change in address or telephone number.
• Continue with any appointments and treatment plans as prescribed by your health care provider(s).
• Do not submit your own review/appeal if you are interested in our assistance.

Please contact us to set an appointment if you are interested in any assistance from the WAO.