Language selection

Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Search

Designated Assistant (DA) Guide

Designated Assistant (DA) Guide  [PDF - 1009 KB]

Definitions

The following definitions apply throughout this publication.

Base

A unit designated as such by or under the authority of the Minister, the function of which is to provide such accommodation and support services for assigned units as may be directed by the Chief of the Defence Staff. Includes: Area Support Units (ASUs), Personnel Support Units (PSUs), designated Wings, Canadian Forces Support Units (CFSUs), designated ships and Canadian Forces Stations (CFSs). (Base)

Casualty

Any injury to or illness of an officer or non-commissioned member whether or not it is fatal, and includes the absence of a missing officer or non-commissioned member. (Perte)

Casualty Management Team (CMT)

This team is formed to ensure the continuous management of the patient from hospitalization all the way through the rehabilitation period, until he/she is ready to return to work or to be released from the CAF for medical reasons. (Équipe de gestion du blessé (ÉGB))

Casualty Reception Team (CRT)

This team is formed to supervise the transfer of a casualty to more permanent care facilities. (Équipe de réception du blessé (ÉRB))

Casualty Support Administration Officer (Cas Sp Admin O)

The person whom the Commanding Officer (CO) names as the main point of contact for and provider of all administrative support to the DA. The Cas Sp Admin O is responsible for planning transportation, preparing applications and travel orders, reserving hotels, and researching regulations to support the DA, the personal representative, and the NOK as needed. (Officier – Soutien et administration des pertes militaires (O-SAPM))

Estates Administration Officer (EAO)

The person at the Office of the Judge Advocate General acting on behalf of the Director of Estates (the JAG) in administering service estates. (Officier – Soutien et Administration des pertes militaires (O-SAPM))

Next of Kin (NOK)

NOK in respect of an officer or non-commissioned member, means persons designated, in order of preference, as next of kin by the officer or non-commissioned member, on a form that is approved by the Chief of the Defence Staff for that purpose. (Plus proche parent (PPP))

Personal Representative

A person appointed by a will or by a court to administer a deceased member’s estate. A “personal representative of the estate” may have different names in different provinces, depending on whether they are appointed by a will or by a court, such as: estate trustee, administrator, liquidator or executor. (Représentant personnel)

Repatriation Liaison Officer (Repat LO)

The chain of command’s representative to the Mortuary Affairs Service Provider. The Repat LO is the sole/main point of contact for all matters concerning the repatriation of our Fallen members(s). His/ her role is to minimize the administrative burden on DA(s). All personnel (unit CO’s) are encouraged to contact the Repat LO on all matters pertaining to the repatriation process. (Officier de liaison - Rapatriement (OL - Rapatriement))

Serious Illness/Injury (SI)

An illness or injury of such severity that there is cause for immediate concern but the casualty’s life is in no immediate danger. (Gravement malade/blessé grièvement (GM/B))

Substitute decision-maker

A person appointed by a power of attorney, by a board or court, or by law to act on behalf of a member in making property or health-care decisions. A “substitute decision-maker” may have different names in different provinces, such as attorney, guardian of property, or representative, depending on whether he/ she is appointed by a power of attorney, by a board or court, or by law. (Décideur substitut)

Supporting Administrative Authority (Sp Admin Auth)

A person that is in a position to approve routine claims. The supporting administrative authority (Sp Admin Auth) is normally the senior base or formation Admin O or someone who works directly with that person. (Autorité administrative de soutien)

Transition Centre (TC)

A sub-unit of the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group (CAF TG), that provides support services for currently serving and former CAF ill and injured personnel, their families, and the families of the fallen at bases and wings. The TC Services Section provides support to the DA concerning all DCSM services. (Centre de Transition (CT))

Very Serious Illness/Injury (VSI)

An illness or injury of such severity that the casualty’s life is in immediate danger. (Très gravement malade/blessé très grièvement (TGM/B))

Back to top

Role

Designated Assistant’s role and responsibilities

DA assignment

The DA is assigned... ...when the member is
to a personal representative or substitute decision maker missing / Deceased or SI / VSI, and incapable of making informed decisions
to the member SI or VSI, and capable of making informed decisions

Representing the CO

You have been directed to represent the casualty’s CO. Keep the CO up-to-date at all times. For the duration of your task, you will receive direction from and report to him/her. Henceforth, all reference in this Guide to “the CO” will refer to the injured, deceased or missing member’s CO, who is not necessarily your regular CO.

DA’s Role

The DA’s role is to be the vital link between the CAF, the casualty, the NOK, the personal representative, and any substitute decision-maker.

Ensuring Liaison

It is important to liaise with the CO, Sp Admin Auth, the EAO, various resource providers, and with the casualty and/or the NOK.

Your Duties

Your DA duties will take precedence over your other normal tasks, and becomes your primary duty.

To the member / NOK:

Administrative Support

Besides the usual resources from the chain of command, the CO may assign a Cas Sp Admin O to deal with administrative support and logistics when the situation is complex. TC Services Managers an initial briefing to the DA on behalf of CAF TG and DCSM. The DA will receive a copy of the DA guide and other references and information about the repatriation ceremony (if applicable), funeral and burial entitlements, military memorial service, board of inquiry, and DA disengagement.

TC Services Managers and Services Coordinators are available to provide the DA with an up-to-date list on the available support services, contact information for subject matter experts (SMEs) and continuous support to the DA during her/his assignment

Reimbursement of your expenses

For the length of your tasking, your personal expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with Canadian Forces Temporary Duty Travel Instructions (CFTDTI).

You shall submit a CLAIMSX to your unit or the casualty’s unit. Other expenses related to your duty may be submitted on a General Allowance Claim and will be considered. If a CAS Sp Admin O is not readily available, then DCSM TC Svc staff can provide assistance throughout your duty.

Protocol for a Designated Assistant

It is important to ensure that you are sensitive to the casualty’s/ NOK’s wishes; however, you must know who has the legal authority to make certain decisions. When in doubt, you should seek legal advice before acting on anyone’s request or direction. You must be flexible and explore every possible avenue in your efforts on behalf of the member, NOK, personal representative or any substitute decision-maker. If a request does not appear to be consistent with regulations and orders, it is to be referred to higher authority for consideration.

Represent the CAF

Your preparation will facilitate sensitive but constructive contact with people. You need to establish good communication to build confidence and mutual respect.

During your first visit, explain your role and offer assistance without imposing. Be respectful. Always speak of the casualty with respect while using his or her first name. Leave your contact details before you leave (see page 15).

Manage expectations

Do not make any promises or commitments regarding financial benefits unless entitlements are confirmed through regulations or with the approving authority.

Do not refuse any request from the casualty or NOK without reference to higher authority to avoid the appearance of being negative or insensitive and to preserve the opportunity to explore options;

Facilitate Communication

You will be the main source of information and you will be asked many questions concerning legal and financial affairs with which you may not be familiar. It is important that you seek assistance from SMEs for any matters that you do not completely understand.

When appropriate, coordinate meetings between the member and/or NOK and the various service providers: SISIP Financial Services (SISIP FS), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), etc.; and let the public affairs officers deal with the media, and do not make any public statements without speaking to them before hand.

Compassion

You shall demonstrate compassion and be understanding in order to conduct your task properly. Your help and advice will contribute to relieving the tension and suffering of the casualty and/or NOK.

How are you feeling?

You must avoid becoming too emotionally involved. If you sense a feeling of becoming too involved, please do not hesitate to discuss it with the CO, chaplain or mental health support services such as, social worker or TC Family Liaison Officer.

Toolbox

If you are tasked as a DA, you could be away from your family and your unit for an extended period. Be prepared!

Back to top

Deceased

You will be supporting the NOK and/or the personal representative during this extremely difficult period. This is your primary responsibility until the end of your tasking as a DA.

References

QR&O Chapter 21: Summary Investigations and Boards of Inquiry

QR&O Chapter 24: Casualties and Funerals

QR&O Chapter 25: Service Estates and Personal Belongings

QR&O Chapter 26.20: Certificates of Death or Presumption of Death

QR&O Chapter 209: Payment of Travel and Living Expenses and Relocation Expenses

CBI 203.11: Personnel Deceased or Presumed Dead

CBI 208: Relocation Benefits

CBI 210.20: Funeral and Burial Expenses

CFAO 24-1: Casualties - Reporting and Administration

CFAO 24-5: Funerals, Burials and Graves Registration

CFAO 26-2: Death Certificates and Registration of Death

CFAO 26-18: Personal Emergency Notification

DAOD 5018-0: Support Management for Injured or Ill Canadian Armed Forces Members and Military Casualties

DAOD 5018-3: National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces

DAOD 7004-0: Claims By or Against the Crown and Ex gratia Payments

DAOD 7011-0: Service Estates and Personal Belongings

DAOD 7011-1: Responsibilities for Service Estates and Personal Belongings

DAOD 7012-0: Wills

DAOD 7012-1: Preparation and Administration of Wills

A-PP-005-IRP-AG-001: Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program Directive- Section 6

CANFORGEN 115/14: Completion of CF 742 Emergency Contacts(s) Notification (ECN) and

DND 2587 Next of Kin (NOK) Identification Forms

Useful contact information

The DA shall complete this list and give it to the ill/injured member and/or NOK during the first visit.

How to reach your Designated Assistant

Rank:

Name:

Unit:

Cell Phone Number:

Officer Phone Number:

E-mail:

Other:
Local Contacts
Title Name Telephone
Chaplain    
Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)  

1-800-268-7708
Helping Our Peers by Providing Empathy (HOPE)  

1-800-883-6094
Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS)  

1-800-883-6094
Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC)  

1-800-866-4546
SISIP Financial Services (SISIP FS)  

1-800-267-6681
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)  

1-866-522-2122
Director Casualty Support Management (DCSM)  

1-800-883-6094
Public Affairs    

Back to top

Checklist Deceased

Designated Assistant’s checklist

A DA has many diverse functions; this checklist is designed to help you develop your plans. Additional information is found on pages 27 to 44 and 55 to 70 of this guide. In case of doubt, ask for advice from the TC Svcs Manager. Of course, the sequence of tasks will vary depending on the situation you confront. The chain of command may have additional requirements.

Always talk about the deceased member with respect while using his or her first name.

Information about the Deceased

SN:

Rank, Name and Surname:

Unit:

Section:

Date and Place of Death:

Main Residential Address:
Information about the Personal representative

Name:

Address:

Telephone:
Information about the NOK

Name:

Address:

Telephone:

Relationship:
Contacts
Title Name Telephone

CAF TC Services Manager (Svc Mgr)

    

CAF Transition Centre (CAF TC)

    

Casualty Support Administra-

tive Officer

(Cas Sp Admin O)

    

Chaplain

    

Repatriation Liaison Officier

(Repat LO)

    

Unit CWO/CPO1

    

Military Family Resource Centre

/ Family Liaison Officer

(MFRC/FLO)

    

SISIP Financial Services

    

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)

    

Helping Our Peers by Providing Empathy ( HOPE)

    

Public Affairs Officer (PAO)

    

Pension and Estates

    

Base Deputy Judge Advocate

    

Designated Assistant’s Tasks

Before the first visit to the NOK...

First Visit

Subsequent Visits

If there is a then and then

CAF will

1. retain a certified true copy at the unit;

2. send the original to the Director of Estates;

fax a copy to Director of Estates to accelerate the process.

Civilian will

1. a certified true copy should be retained at the unit;

2. send a true copy to the Director of Estates;

Repatriation of member’s remains in the case of a death occurring on an operation outside of Canada

From this point on, tasks apply to all deaths whether they are in the context of an operation or not

Funeral and burial arrangements

Burial at a location other than the place of death (two funeral directors involved)

Burial not requiring two funeral directors

Burial - General

Military Funeral

Scattering of ashes at sea

After the Funeral

NOTE :The Administration Investigation Support Centre (AISC) request that the DA does not discuss any Board of Inquiry (BOI) related issues. If the NOK is involved in the BOI, the Board President will contact them. The DA may be expected to attend with the NOK/family representative.

Confirmation that services have been rendered and goods delivered: you shall confirm that services have been rendered and goods delivered by signing all invoices submitted for reimbursement.

Invoices: collect and submit invoices to CAF TG J8 Financial Services via the unit administrative support.

Back to top

Administrative Assistance (Deceased)

What is bereavement or grief?

Contact with the bereaved NOK/family may be sensitive and emotional. HOPE can support the DA in how to approach the family or on grief education.

The death of a loved one can be an overwhelming, frightening and painful experience that can cause a major emotional crisis. When a death takes place, a person may experience a wide range of emotions even when the death is expected. Most of the time after learning of the death of a loved one, many people report feeling of sock, numbness, and disbelief that their love one is gone. There is no timeline for grieving, people will manage their lost as they can with a wide range of emotions.

Possible Grief Reactions:

Grief can be a long and painfull process that forces people to readjust their live in order to compensate and cope with their new reality.

If, at any stage of your duties, you feel overwhelmed or unable to adequately deal with the bereaved family, you should consult the CO, a Chaplain or a social worker.

CFMAP counselling services

CFMAP Bereavement Services is a 24-hour, 1-800 bilingual telephone service, available 365 days a year to a parent, a spouse, children and step children, a fiancé(e), and any other person of significance to CAF personnel who died while serving. You can access a professional counsellor by telephone from anywhere at anytime. An appointment will be arranged within a maximum of 48 hours. Short and long term counselling options are available and are free of charge.

For more information or an appointment call: 1-800-268-7708 (or 1-800-567-5803 for the hearing impaired).

HOPE Bereavement Peer Support Program

Helping Our Peers by providing Empathy Program provides confidential peer support for military families who have lost a loved one who served in the CAF either active or retired. The loss may be attributed to military services or any other cause. Please inform the family about the program and it services and contact the HOPE program manager if the family expresses interest in the bereavement peer support program, you can reach the Program Manager at 1-800-883-6094. A HOPE volunteer will be designated and will contact the NOK/family member.

You may use the following statement to talk to the family about a program:

“I would like to inform you that, in addition to the programs and services we talked about today, the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada have created a bereavement peer support program (HOPE). This program allows grieving people like yourself (ves) to receive peer support from a trained volunteer who has experience a similar loss as yourself. With your permission, I would like to send your name and contact information to this network so that the volunteers who work there can contact you.”

If the grieving person agrees, ask him/her when would be a good time to receive a call.

Wills and Estates

Facilitate Communication

The CAF encourages CAF members to prepare a will and to review it periodically. Additionally, a member is provided with the opportunity to place his/her will in safekeeping with the CAF or to record its location if it is not held in CAF custody. The Unit Records Support (URS) of a CAF member is responsible for the safekeeping and control of the will or the will certificate. When a CAF member dies, the CO shall ensure that the URS promptly forwards to the Estates Administration Officer (EAO), any will or will certificate or, if none is held, a statement to that effect. The will contains sensitive personal information that should only be disclosed in accordance with the Privacy Act.

A Committee of Adjustment (COA) is appointed by the CO within 48 hours of the CAF member’s death. Unless advised that the URS is in the possession of or that it will obtain the will or will certificate, the COA will:

Disposition of the Member’s Remains and Funeral Arrangements?

It should be noted that decisions on the disposition of the remains and on funeral arrangements do not form part of the administration of the service estate. The personal representative for the estate has the legal authority over the disposition of the remains. When there is no personal representative and no one has yet been appointed, the law provides that the NOK has the right to make the decision about the disposition. The DA should consult the unit legal advisor for assistance regarding the person with whom the DA should consult regarding disposition of the member’s remains.

Provincial law determines the order of priority for the various levels of next of kin (NOK). When more than one NOK wishes to make funeral arrangements, the funeral director will give priority in accordance with the law.

Estates

The Concise Oxford English Dictionary (11th ed.) defines estate as “the person’s money and property in its entirety at the time of their death.” The disposition and administration of a deceased person’s estate is governed by provincial law.

Service Estate

The service estate is a subset of a deceased CAF member’s personal estate. The service estate is essentially comprised of the following:

The service estate does not include personal or movable property found in family housing or otherwise in the care, custody or control of the NOK.

The Minister of National Defence has appointed the Judge Advocate General (JAG) to be the Director of Estates. The EAO is responsible to administer, on behalf of the JAG, the service estate entitlements following the death of a serving military member.

When a CAF member dies, the member’s service estate is distributed in accordance with QR&O Chapter 25 and the deceased person’s will, subject to applicable provincial law. In the absence of a will, the service estate is still distributed in accordance with applicable provincial law, but may result in delay and additional expense to the estate. The EAO will liaise directly with the personal representative (liquidator of the succession in Quebec) appointed in the will. In the absence of a will, the EAO will liaise with the NOK determined in accordance with the applicable provincial intestate law.

The EAO will:

The role of the DA in relation to the administration of a service estate is to be responsive to the EAO and to direct any service estate-related questions to the EAO. The administration of a CAF member’s personal estate may be quite complex. The DA, the EAO and JAG representatives cannot provide legal advice to the deceased’s personal representative on this matter. If engaged on the issue, the DA should recommend that the personal representative seek legal advice from a civilian lawyer competent in the law of estate administration.

Next of Kin Travel Benefit

When a CAF member dies on service, the NOK who are identified on form DND 2587 are entitled to have their travel and living expenses paid or reimbursed within the limits prescribed by QR&O Chapter 209 if they attend:

You shall e-mail the list of eligible NOK who wish to attend any of the above functions to the unit of the deceased member as well as ++DCSMNKTB@CMP DCSM@Ottawa-Hull using the format on page 69.

The most practical and economical method of transportation should be considered. Travel arrangements shall be made with the Unit Admin O or the Sp Admin Auth.

If you need more information on travel expense entitlements, contact the TC Services Manager or CAF TG J8 Financial Services.

If the NOK and family would like to attend any of these ceremonies/events, the DA is expected to accompany them.

Funeral and Burial

The personal representative has the sole legal authority to determine funeral service and place of burial provisions. You may discuss the specifics of these arrangements with the help of the chaplain/clergy member. You shall keep the CO up-to-date on the arrangements. These issues should not be raised during the first visit but when the family is ready to talk about them.

Funeral Expenses

You shall inform the personal representative that the Department of National Defence will reimburse funeral expenses as detailed in the table entitled “Funeral and Burial Expenses” on pages 36-37. These costs are reimbursable whether the personal representative chooses a civilian or a military funeral, but the personal representative shall understand that he/she shall be responsible to cover any costs exceeding the permitted amounts.

Invoices shall be forwarded to CAF TG J8 Financial Services through the unit orderly room as soon as possible, and shall indicate the services rendered and amounts incurred.

Funeral director

You may assist the personal representative in choosing a funeral director. If the burial is to take place in Canada but in an area other than the place of death, two funeral directors will be required. Generally, the administrative unit on each base maintains a list of funeral directors in the area who are willing to provide services at government rates. The personal representative should be made aware of the funeral directors who have indicated a willingness to conduct either a military or civilian funeral within prescribed rates. You may contact the funeral director(s) to ensure that they understand the maximum funeral and burial expenses that may be defrayed under Treasury Board set rates.

Wills and Estates

At no time shall the DA sign a contract or make any commitments on behalf of the CAF with respect to funeral arrangements. The contract for funeral and burial expenses shall be btween the personal representative and the funeral director.

Civilian funeral

When the personal representative does not want to have a military funeral, the CAF should ensure a military presence at the civilian funeral to pay respects to the deceased member and honour his or her memory.

Military funeral

If the personal representative wants a military funeral, it is strongly recommended that you or your Cas Sp Admin O meet with the base/formation/unit CWO/CPO 1 and the chaplain, who will help you coordinate the funeral.

Cremation

The costs of an urn and a niche in a columbarium, including perpetual care of the niche, are included in the set rate for funeral and burial services (CBI 210.20(5)). However, when the remains of a member are cremated, a simple plot for the burial of ashes may be purchased at the prevailing rate at the cemetery in which the ashes are to be interred. This entitlement includes the cost for interment and perpetual care of the plot (CBI 210.20(7)).

Burial

You may propose the following interment options to the personal representative:

You should notify the personal representative that the place of burial may have an impact on the choice of headstone. Some private cemeteries do not allow the installation of DND headstones, and only DND headstones may be installed at the National Military Cemetery.

Scattering of ashes

The personal representative may also request scattering of a CAF member’s ashes. Refer to CBI 210.20(5).

Temporary marker

You shall inform the personal representative that DND will cover the cost of a temporary marker, if required.

Official headstone/memorial

DCSM 2 must be contacted to arrange a letter to the Last Post Fund (LPF) for a DND headstone. The LPF will contact the personal representative about a permanent headstone or another memorial.

Consult the LPF to obtain more information on official headstones or memorials at 1-800-465-7113 or on the Web at www.lastpostfund.ca.

An official headstone is an upright granite marker 32 inches (81 cm) tall or a flat marker including the inscription of a CAF crest or badge, the deceased’s service number and rank, name, branch or regiment (or CAF), the date of death, age of the member and a religious symbol.

You may assist the personal representative in the choice of a crest or badge to be engraved on an official headstone. If you require a sample of a crest or badge, you can contact DCSM at 1-800-883-6094.

Privately Purchased Headstone/Marker or Other Memorial

When the personal representative does not wish to place a DND headstone, provided by the LPF, then a headstone, marker or other memorial (for example, a tree or bench) may be purchased with public funds, not to exceed the cost of a DND headstone. The personal representative may arrange the contract, and once services have been rendered, forward the invoice to CAF TG J8 Financial Services for payment. Privately arranged headstones provide the personal representative with the flexibility of putting whatever he/she desires on the headstone rather than being limited to what is offered on the DND headstone.

Military Memorial Service

A military memorial service, in order to commemorate the deceased member, may take place. If the NOK and family would like to attend, you shall accompany them and coordinate their travel.

Funeral and burial expenses

DND will pay funeral and burial expenses for a currently serving member up to the limits outlined in regulations as detailed below. The estate will bear any extra or higher costs.

The set rate (exclusive of the Goods and Services Tax and Provincial Sales Tax) will be adjusted annually on 1 April to allow for a cost of living adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index for the previous calendar year.

Funeral expenses charged to the Crown

1) Funeral and burial expenses, including cremation, confirm amount with the Transition Centre Services Manager

2) Cemetery plots

  1. single permanent plot or the percentage for a single plot when a multiple plot is purchased (at prevailing rate); and
  2. the cost for burial and perpetual care of the plot.

3) Special casket (oversized or hermetically sealed)

  1. prevailing rate when provincial or other laws governing burials or the transportation of remains require such a casket; and DCSM is the authority for reimbursement with the CO’s certification, based on the MO’s recommendation that
  2. the condition of the remains warrants that type of casket.

4) Transportation of remains

  1. if the burial shall be in a place other than the place of death;
    • when the member is away from his/her parent unit, transportation back to the parent unit and then to the place of burial,
    • transportation from the place of death to the place of burial,
    • transportation from the place of death to the nearest crematorium for cremation and then the transportation of the ashes to the place of burial, and
  2. special provisions made or required by the carrier for the transportation of the remains shall be included in the actual cost of the transportation.

5) Official headstone or marker

When the personal representative does not wish to place a DND headstone provided by the Last Post Fund (LPF), DND will defray a part of the cost of a private headstone, marker or memorial in an

amount not exceeding prescribed amount (confirm amount with Transition Centre Service Manager).

6) Limitations

Official headstone/memorial

You shall ensure that the Sp Admin Auth is provided with the proper certification of death. It is crucial that the service documents of all members who die while serving in the CAF include a valid registration of death or provincial death certificate or statement/proof recording the cause of death, thereby facilitating insurance, pension, estate and other administrative procedures. When a member is being moved between provinces, a registration of death form (not to be confused with a death certificate) is also required.

When a member of the Regular Force or of the Reserve Force on Class “A”, “B” or “C” Reserve Service dies in Canada and was attended by a CAF medical officer (MO) at the time of death, the attending medical officer (MO) shall complete a registration of death form used in the province where the death occurred. The original shall be remitted to the funeral director to whom the remains are released.

Photocopies of the original shall be distributed as follows:

If a CAF member dies outside of Canada, and an MO was attending, he or she shall complete a CAF

Medical Certificate of Death (DND 2317).

If a MO was not in attendance at the time of death, every effort shall be made to obtain a copy of the registration of death form from the attending medical authority. Failing that, a death certificate, preferably including the immediate and contributory causes of death, shall be obtained from the appropriate department of the jurisdiction in which death occurred. Additional copies of the death certificate or statement/proof of death shall be provided to the personal representative for administrative purposes (such as transferring vehicle ownership, insurance, etc.).

Financial assistance

The NOK/family may need immediate financial assistance to deal with unexpected expenses. Your Transition Centre Services Manager or regional financial adviser (SISIP FS) can provide advice and assistance in this matter. Call 1-800-267-6681.

Board of Inquiry (BOI)/Summary Investigation (SI)

A BOI or SI will be carried out to investigate the death of a CAF member. The BOI president or SI investigator may contact the DA to ascertain the emotional state and attitude of the PNOK or NOK toward the CAF, prior to their first meeting with the PNOK or NOK. The BOI president or SI investigator will liaise directly with the PNOK or NOK to the extent that they deem appropriate. The DA is not involved with this liaison or with any BOI/SI associated administrative details. Due to the sensitivity and complexity of the BOI and SI processes, the DA must refrain from engaging in any discussion of specific details about BOI /SI with any of the NOK. The DA may inform them that a BOI or SI will be conducted, that it will be an internal process to investigate the cause and contributing factors to the death, and that any questions or concerns posed by the PNOK or NOK will be referred by the DA to the BOI president or SI investigator.

Assistance to the NOK

The DA may also provide general information to the NOK on the following subjects as required:

Death benefits

In order to discuss entitlements, it is important that you have current factual information on the benefits applicable to the beneficiary. To complete this, obtain a copy of and be familiar with The Guide. A letter from the Director Canadian Forces Pensions Services (DCFPS) will be sent to the beneficiary two weeks after the member has died, giving detailed information about the entitlements.

You shall advise the NOK/personal representative to obtain several copies of the following documents in order to apply for benefits:

DA Disengagement

Disengagement from your DA tasking is a responsibility of the chain of command. You will be able to start disengagement procedures with the CO and with the Transition Centre Services Manager when:

The TC Services Section will assume NOK support when you have terminated your duties.

Possible benefits and services in case of death

Note 1: See The Guide to Benefits, Programs and Services for Serving and Former Canadian Armed

Forces Members and their Families.

Note 2: Service categories include members of the: Regular Force

Reserve Force:

Back to top

Benefits and Services (Deceased)

Possible benefits and services (Note 1) Categories (Note 2) Contacts
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC): the Pension Act and the Canadian Forces Members and Veterans Re-establishment and Compensation Act

Death Benefit

Eligibility may vary

English - 1-866-522-2122

French - 1-866-522-2022

Disability Pension

Disability Award

Financial Benefits: Earnings Loss Benefits

Career Impact Allowance

Career Impact Allowance Supplement

Supplementary Retirement Benefit

Canadian Forces Income Support

Rehabilitation Program

Education Assistance Program VAC Career Transition Services

Canadian Forces Superannuation Act (CFSA)

  

DCFPS

1-800-267-0325

613-971-6012
Canadian Armed Forces

Canadian Armed Forces Severance Pay

Regular Force

DMPAP RPPO 1-800-773-7705

Funeral expenses and headstone

Serving members on paid service

DCSM

1-800-883-6094

Intended Place of Residence

Eligibility may vary

Release Section

Director Pensions and Social Programs (DPSP)
Release Benefits Administration (RBA) Reserves 

Reserve Force other than Class “C”

613-907-8629

 

613-901-8330

SISIP FS - Optional Term Life Insurance

Plans

Plan participants Eligibiltiy may vary

1-800-267-6681

Canadian Forces Personnel Assistance Fund (CFPAF)

1-800-267-6681
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Quebec Pension Plan (QPP)

Survivor benefits

Death benefits

Edibility may vary

CPP - 1-800-277-9914 or 1-800-277-9915

www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp.html

or

QPP - 1-800-463-5185

www.retraitequebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/Pages/accueil.aspx

Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP)

Regular Force, members and veterans in receipt of an ongoing recognized pension

VAC - 1-866-522-2122

Pensioners’ Dental Services Plan

DCFPS - 1-800-267-0325

www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/fac-caf/cntctns-cntctus-eng.html

United Nations Military Death and Disability Compensation

Regular Force, Reserve

Force Class “C”

212-848-1157

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)

All

1-800-268-7708

Chaplain services

All

1-866-502-2203

Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS)

All

1-800-883-6094

www.osiss.ca

HOPE Bereavement Peer Support Program

All

1-800-883-6094

HOPE-ESPOIR@forces.gc.ca

www.hope-espoir.com

Military Family Resource Centres (MFRC)

All

1-800-866-4546

www.cafconnection.ca/National/Local-Sites/Military-Family-Resource-Centres.aspx
Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group

Primary Point of Contact (POC) for the DA is the local TC Services Manager or Coordinator. Contact information will be provided during the DA’s first meeting at the TC Services Section.

DA only

1-800-883-6094

www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/benefits-military/transition/understanding-transition/transition-centres.html

Initial non-crisis assistance and referral service, from 0800 to 1600 hours EST, Monday– Friday

All

Back to top

Injury/Ilness

Seriously ill/injured (SI) or very seriously Ill or injured members (VSI)

A CO may decide to appoint a DA in the event a member is seriously ill or injured.

Your responsibility as Designated Assistant (DA) is enormous. You are a vital link between the CO and the ill/injured member and/or his/her NOK. Your role is to support the ill/injured member, NOK and substitute decision-maker during this extremely difficult time. You may also be called upon to help other NOK members in a variety of ways and in various circumstances. This is your primary responsibility until the end of your tasking as a DA.

You are representing the CO with the goal of helping the injured member during the recovery process so that he or she can return to military duty or, if applicable, make a smooth transition to civilian life.

You shall ensure that the member/NOK and any substitute decision-maker have access to all the necessary resources to facilitate the member’s recovery. Your tasks will depend upon the situation, location and duration of treatment. You will support the member/NOK/family and any substitute decision-maker in collaboration with the various service providers included on the checklist.

References

QR&O Chapter 21: Summary Investigations and Boards of Inquiry

CFAO 24-1: Casualties – Reporting and Administration

CFAO 26-18: Personal Emergency Notification

DAOD 5018-0: Support Management for Injured or Ill Canadian Armed Forces Members and Military Casualties

DAOD 7004-0: Claims By or Against the Crown and Ex Gratia Payments

CBI 203.07: Payments on Behalf of Personnel Mentally or Physically Incapacitated

CBI 205.536: Allowance – Loss Of Operational Allowances (ALOA)

CBI 210.72: Reserve Force - Compensation during a period of injury, disease or illness

CBI 211.07: Next of Kin Travel Benefit

A-PP-005-LVE-AG-001: Canadian Forces Leave Policy Manual

CANFORGEN 115/08: Amendments to Compensation for Disability and Death Gratuity – Res F
Extension of Class “C” Reserve Service for personnel whose injury or illness;
was sustained on special duty service

CANFORGEN 212/17: Provision of Comfort Items to Hospitalized CAF Members

CANFORGEN 115/14: Emergency Contact(s) Notification and Next of Kin Identification Forms

Government Employees Compensation Act (GECA):

"www.laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/g-5/"

Contacts for the next of kin (NOK)

The DA shall complete this list and give it to the ill/injured member and/or NOK during the first visit.

Information about the Ill/Injured Member

Rank:

Name:

Unit:

Cell phone :

E-mail :

Other:
Local Contacts
Title Name Telephone

Chaplain

    

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)

  

1-800-268-7708

Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS)

  

1-800-883-6094

Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC)

  

1-800-866-4546

SISIP Financial Services (SISIP FS)

  

1-800-267-6681

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)

  

1-866-522-2122

Back to top

Checklist (Injury/Illness)

Designated Assistant checklist for a VSI member

A DA has diverse functions; this checklist is designed to help you develop your action plan. Additional information is found on pages 55-70 of this guide. In case of doubt, ask for advice from the Sp Admin Auth or the appropriate subject matter expert (SME). Of course, the sequence of tasks will vary depending on the situation you will confront. The chain of command may have additional requirements.

Always talk about the ill/injured member with respect while using his or her first name.

Information about the Ill/Injured Member

SN:

Rank and name:

Unit:

Section:

Date and place of hospitalization:
Information about the Next of Kin (NOK)

Name:

Address:

Telephone:
Local Contacts
Title Name Telephone

CF Nurse Case manager

    

Medical Officer

    

Social Worker

    

Primary care nurse

    

Cas Sp Admin O

    

Chaplain

    

MFRC/FLO

    

SISIP FS

    

VAC

    

OSISS

    

DCSM

    

Public Affairs

    

TC

    

Substitute decision maker (when applicable)

    

Tasks

Before the first visit to the NOK... (Usually the ill/injured member directly informs the NOK)

Temporary hospitalization (location other than unit)

Only medical authorities may recommend whether or not the NOK is required. They will make that recommendation based on the patient’s condition.

For travel to Europe, the Casualty Support Team will meet the travelers onsite and assist them with administrative requirements during their stay.

First visit to the NOK

Introduce yourself, explain your role and that you are available 24/7. Ask the NOK if the member has completed a power of attorney for either property or health care, and have them identify who has been appointed as a substitute decision-maker. Leave your contact information (see page 15). Do not leave the NOK alone unless there is someone else (a relative or friend or a chaplain) with the NOK.

Inform the member/NOK about the following available assistance services:

Transportation of ill/injured member to longer-term health facility

Rehabilitation, return to duty or release

Other Tasks

Back to top

Administrative Assistance (Injury/Illness)

Transportation and travel for the NOK

DCSM may authorize the reimbursement of travel and living expenses for the NOK and travel assistants. You shall e-mail the request directly to the casualty’s unit according to the procedures in place in the casualty’s HQ in cases of illness or injuries when their presence is warranted and supported by the CAF medical authority or in cases of death.

The Next of Kin Travel Benefits (NKTB) is authorized for a maximum of four persons, including travel assistants, for a combined total of 120 days. Under the authority of the DCSM, an additional period of travel not exceeding 180 days may be authorized for one person, if in the opinion of the MO, additional attendance of the NOK is required.

See format on page 69.

Financial assistance

The NOK may need immediate financial assistance to deal with unexpected expenses. Transition Centre (TC) Services Manager or your regional financial adviser (SISIP FS) can provide advice and assistance in this matter.

Phone: 1-800-267-6681

Substitute decision-makers

A member may authorize a substitute decision-maker to act on his/her behalf when he/she is absent or mentally incapable of making decisions.

The appointment of substitute decision-makers is controlled by provincial legislation.

The authority of a substitute decision-maker is controlled by:

A substitute decision-maker is typically appointed to make decisions about:

Regarding health-care, a medical authority normally determines when a member is mentally incapable of making decisions about his/her health care. Once that determination is made, the substitute decision-maker should be able to exercise decision-making authority in the Power of Attorney.

Regarding property, a substitute decision-maker should be able to make decisions for the member in accordance with the decision-making authority in the Power of Attorney. However:

Advice you may wish to provide to the member:

Board of inquiry

A BOI or SI will be carried out to investigate the serious injury of a CAF member.  The BOI president or SI investigator will liaise directly with the injured member, or, if the injured member is unable to do so, with the member’s representative. The member’s representative will be chosen by the injured member if able to do so. If the injured member is unable to choose a member’s representative, the BOI president or SI investigator will do so, normally from the NOK list. The DA will normally not be involved with liaison between the BOI/SI and the injured member or the member’s representative or any other related BOI/SI administrative detail. Due to the sensitivity and complexity of the BOI and SI processes, and the fact that these processes are subject to frequent change in response to lessons learned, the DA must refrain from engaging in any discussion about BOI/SI with the injured member, the member’s representative or any of the NOK. The DA may inform them that a BOI or SI will be conducted, that it will be an internal process to investigate the cause and contributing factors to the injury, and that any questions or concerns posed by the injured member or member’s representative will be addressed by the BOI president or SI investigator.

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) benefits

The ill/injured member may be entitled to some VAC benefits. If so, the assigned VAC officer will contact the DA to determine the best time to contact the beneficiary/NOK in order to ensure that he/she receives information on the benefits for which he/she is eligible.

Counselling

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)

CFMAP facilitates immediate access to counselling services for the ill/injured member’s family. The program provides short-term counselling to deal with a crisis or an immediate problem. This program should be used only until the family doctor can refer the family to a local mental health care provider. Mental health care coverage may vary by province and depends on the family’s insurance plan (such as the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP)).

A married member’s spouse and dependant children are eligible for crisis-intervention service. In the case of an unmarried member with no dependants, the program is available to the NOK.

OSISS

The Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS) Program provides confidential peer support, family support and social support to CAF members, Veterans, and their families, affected by an operational stress injury (OSI) such as anxiety, depression, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) resulting from military service.

If the NOK or a family member expresses interest in the OSISS program, forward his/her name and telephone number to DCSM at 1-800-883-6094. DCSM will forward the request to the program manager.

An OSISS volunteer will be designated and will contact the family.

DA disengagement

Your disengagement from your DA tasking is a responsibility of the chain of command.

You will be able to start disengagement procedures with the CO when:

The TC Services Manager will normally assume the member’s support when you have terminated your duties.

Back to top

Benefits and Services (Injury/Ilness)

Possible disability benefits and services

Note 1: See The Guide to Benefits, Programs and Services for Serving and Former Canadian Armed Forces Members and their Families

Note 2: Service categories include members of the:

Possible benefits and services

(Note 1)

 Categories (Note 2) Contacts
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC): The Pension Act and the Canadian Forces Members and Veterans Re-establishment and Compensation Act

Rehabilitation Program

Eligibility may vary

English - 1-866-522-2122

French - 1-866-522-2022

Financial Benefits Program

Career Transition Services (CTS)

Disability Award

Health Benefits Program (Public Service

Health Care Plan)
Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)

Posting to CAF TG

Regular Force, Reserve Force - under certain conditions

DCSM - 1-800-883-6094

Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members (VRPSM)

CAF Return to Duty (RTD) program

Regular Force and Primary Reserve

Reserve Force - Compensation during a Period of Injury, Disease or Illness (CPIDI)

All Reserve Force with illness/injury attributable to service

  

Living Benefit

Term life insurance plan holders – under certain conditions

  

Long-Term Disability (LTD)

Regular Force, Reserve Force Class “C” and Primary Reserve Force Class “A” and “B”

1-800-267-6681

Accidental Dismemberment Insurance Plan (ADIP)

As above plus COATS, RETP and Canadian Rangers

  

Vocation Rehabilitation Program (VRP)

Eligibility may vary

Canadian Forces Personnel Assistance Fund (CFPAF) Distress grants and loans

Eligibility may vary

1-800-267-6681

Disability benefits

Eligibility may vary

CPP

1-800-277-9914

1-800-277-9915

www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp.html

or

QPP - 1-800-463-5185

www.retraitequebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/Pages/accueil.aspx
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Disability tax credit

Eligibility criteria applies

See “Taxes - Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)” in the telepone phone book, Section Government of Canada

United Nations Military - Death and Disability Compensation

Regular Force, Reserve Force Class “C”

212-848-1157

Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP)

All

1-800-268-7708

Chaplain services

All

1-866-502-2203

Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS)

All

1-800-883-6094

www.osiss.ca

Soldier On

All serving members and veterans

1-800-883-6094

Soldieron-sanslimites@forces.gc.ca

Local TC - Initial non-crisis assistance and referral service

All

 See page 66-67 for telephone listing www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/benefits-military/transition/understanding-transition/transition-centres.html
Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS)

Hospital Comforts Fund

Eligibility may vary

For more information contact your local TC (see page 64) or

CFPFSS at 1-877-445- 6444 or

by e-mail hospital-comforts@forces.gc.ca

Back to top

Contacts

The following definitions apply throughout this publication

Organization (Abbreviations) 
 Link and additional information
 Phone number
CAF Chaplain Services Chaplain General 1-866-502-2203
CFHS Canadian Forces Health Services (link accessible only on the National Defence network) 613-945-6595
National Case Management Administrative Support 613-945-6600, extensions 3121 or 3714
CFMAP

Canadian Forces Members Assistance Program

Help available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-268-7708
CFMWS

Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services Family Information Line

 

 1-800-866-4546
Hospital Comforts Fund 1-877-445-6444
CPP Canada Pension Plan English- 1-800-277-9914 French - 1-800-277-9915
ATIP Access to Information and Privacy 613-901-6720
DCBA

Directorate of Compensation Benefits Administration

www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/benefits-military/pay-pension-benefits/benefits.html

 613-996-0104
Administrative assistance (relocation, transportation) 613-995-1983
DCFPS Director Canadian Forces Pension Services 1-800-267-0325 613-971-6012
DCSM Director Casualty Support Management Reserve Force - Compensation during a Period of Injury, Disease or Illness (CPIDI), Extension of Class C Reserve Service for Personnel whose Injury or Illness was Sustained on Special Duty Service (SDS), Canadian Forces Return to Duty (RTD) Program, Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Serving Members 1-800-883-6094
HOPE Bereavement Peer Support Program 1-800-883-6094
MFRC Military Family Resource Centres 1-800-866-4546
Operational and Trauma Stress Support Centres Mental Health Services and Information
 Speak to your MO
OSISS Operational Stress Injury Social Support Peer support program 1-800-883-6094
QPP Quebec Pension Plan 1-800-463-5185
Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command 1-877-534-4666
SISIP Financial Services

Insurance, financial planning and counselling, LTD, and vocational rehabilitation

SISIP Online

 1-800-267-6681
VAC Call Centre Veterans Affairs Canada English- 1-866-522-2122 French - 1-866-522-2022
Transition Unit Transition Centre Telephone
British Columbia Esquimalt 250-363-5661
Vancouver 604-225-2520 (2662)
Chilliwack 604-858-1011 (6106)
Comox 250-339-8211 (7092)
Alberta and Northern Canada Edmonton 780-973-4011 (5774)
Calgary 403-614-0587
Cold Lake 780-840-8000 (8215)
Wainwright 780-842-1363 (1518)
Manitoba and Saskatchewan Winnipeg 204-833-2500 (4806)
Shilo 204-765-3000 (3610)
Moose Jaw 306-694-2222 (5541)
Southern Ontario Toronto 416-633-6200 (2663)
London 519-660-5275 (5091)
Borden 705-424-1200 (1302)
Meaford 519-538-1371 (6839)
Eastern Ontario Petawawa 613-687-5511 (3504)
Trenton 613-392-2811 (5059)
Kingston 613-541-5010 (5668)
North Bay 705-494-2011 (2589)
National Capital Region Ottawa 613-945-6600 (6765)
Quebec Valcartier 418-844-5000 (8282)
Bagotville 418-677-4000 (4530)
St Jean 450-358-7099 (3030)
New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island Gagetown 506-422-2000 (6100)
Moncton 506-860-5500 (5601)
Charlottetown 902-370-4723
Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador Halifax 902-722-1907
St John's 709-570-4873
Greenwood 902-765-1494 (5702)
Sydney 902-563-7138
Gander 709-256-1703 (1164)

Back to top

Email Format

From:

 

Sent:

Wednesday, 15, April, 2019 08:11 AM

To:

Casualty’s unit (POC you were given) DCSMNKTB@forces.gc.ca

 

 

Subject:

 

Capt Bloggins 111 – NOK travel for (see QR&O 209.02, 209.03) (examples are: funeral, burial, Memorial service, Awards, Honours & Mementos)(Only one event per request). NOK travel administration to BOI will be managed by BOI staff on the invitation of the Board President.

 

Brief Description/Synopsis:

Attached is the list of Capt Bloggins’ NOK wishing to attend the funeral at CFB Gagetown

 

List of NOK from DND 2587 form:

Serial #/Name/First name/Relationship to the deceased/Age of children /Travelling from NOTE: Only include age if considered a dependant child under CBI 211.005.

 

1.Bloggins/Mary/Spouse/Chilliwack BC

2. Bloggins/Joe/Son/9 yrs old/Chilliwack BC

3. Tremblay/Phil/Grandfather/Saguenay QC (wheelchair, requires travel assistant)

4. Antony/Lois/Grand-mother/New York USA (recent heart surgery i.e. - need a travel assistant)

 

Travel assistants QR&O 209.02 (3):

5. Tremblay/Jasmine/Niece to accompany Phil (serial 3)/Saguenay PQ

6. Turcotte/Maria/to accompany Lois (serial 4)/New York USA

 

For your situational awareness (SA)

 

Signature Block of DA

 

L.A. Smith

From:

 

Sent:

Wednesday, 15, May, 2019 18:35 pM

To:

Casualty’s unit (POC you were given) DCSMNKTB@forces.gc.ca

 

 

Subject:

 

Capt Bloggins 111 – VSI – (See CBI 211.07) Request for NOK travel to Ottawa

 

Brief Description/Synopsis:

Capt Bloggins was seriously injured in theatre and now is being treated in Ottawa. Authority for NOK travel is required for the following members:

 

List of NOK from DND 2587 form:

Serial #/Name/First name/Relationship to the injured/Age of children/Travelling from NOTE: Only include age if considered a dependant child under CBI 211.005.
  • Bloggins/Mary/Spouse/Chilliwack BC
  • Bloggins/Joe/Son/9 yrs old/Chilliwack BC
  • Bloggins/Steven/Brother/Moncton NB

 

Travel assistants QR&O 209.02 (3):

Smith/Samantha/To provide support to the spouse (serial 1) and act as a babysitter (serial 2) while spouse is visiting her husband at the hospital/Chilliwack BC.

 

For your situational awareness (SA)

 

Signature Block of DA

 

L.A. Smith

Back to top

Page details

Date modified: