IDC National Indigenous Navigation Services (NINS)
is a national program offered free of charge to eligible Indigenous persons and families with disabilities, providing dedicated support to help them access disability-related benefits and services across all provinces and territories in Canada. Whether living in Indigenous or non-Indigenous communities, in urban, rural, or remote areas, individuals and families can connect with NINS Navigators for compassionate, culturally grounded guidance in navigating complex application processes and securing the supports they are entitled to receive.
Purpose
To ensure that every Indigenous person and family with disabilities in Canada can access the full range of disability-related benefits available to them, through respectful, culturally informed navigation that honours autonomy, strengthens self-advocacy, and addresses barriers rooted in jurisdictional complexity and systemic inequities.
Roles and responsibilities
Benefit navigation and application support:
Provides direct, one-on-one assistance with understanding eligibility requirements, completing applications, and following up with agencies to secure benefits.
Culturally informed service delivery:
Centres Indigenous perspectives, values, and protocols in every interaction, recognising the unique histories, rights, and needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis clients.
Systems coordination:
Acts as a bridge between clients, community resources, and government agencies to reduce administrative burden and improve access to supports.
Key activities
- Operates a toll-free navigation line (1-888-815-5511) and regional contact numbers where callers can speak directly with a NINS Navigator for guidance, information, and follow-up support.
- Offers email-based support through dedicated Navigator addresses, enabling flexible and accessible communication for clients in all regions.
- Assists with applications for a wide range of disability-related benefits and programs, including provincial, territorial, and federal supports.
- Provides information and referral to other community and health resources as part of a holistic approach to client well-being.
Governance and structure
NINS is operated by the Indigenous Disability Canada/British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (IDC/BCANDS), a national and provincial Indigenous disability organisation. The service is staffed by trained Navigators with expertise in disability benefits, Indigenous contexts, and culturally safe engagement. Funding and partnerships support its delivery across Canada.
Focus on equity and inclusion
NINS affirms the inherent rights of Indigenous persons with disabilities and commits to equitable service delivery that responds to the diversity of Indigenous identities, languages, and lived experiences. The program is grounded in trauma-informed, strengths-based practice, ensuring that clients are met with respect, empathy, and practical solutions tailored to their individual circumstances.
