Systems Navigation Project

The System Navigator Project is a partnership between the Cowichan Women Against Violence Society (CWAV) and the Cowichan Women’s Health Collective (CWHC), created to help people who face barriers when accessing health and community services.

For many clients, navigating the health care and social service systems can feel overwhelming—particularly when past experiences of trauma, stigma, or discrimination make it difficult to seek support. The System Navigator provides compassionate, trauma-informed, one-on-one support to help clients understand their options, access services, and follow through on recommendations.

Support may include accompanying clients to appointments, helping connect them with appropriate services, and assisting with follow-up care. By meeting people where they are and helping them navigate complex systems, the project aims to build trust, reduce barriers, and improve health and wellness outcomes.

The project was supported by the Canadian Association of Community Health Centres (CACHC) and funded through the TD Ready philanthropic program.