Ilford is represented by a mayor and council under the Northern Affairs Act. Emergency Services Fire fighting capability is based on a well equipped pumper truck from the community fire hall. Portable forestry equipment is also available for grass and brush fires. Police response is from the RCMP detachment at Gillam, who have to fly or take a railcar some distance to the community. Residents may qualify for assistance through the Northern Patient Transportation Program.
Medical response is based on the community health worker.
The nearest hospital is in Thompson. Transportation Air Northern Manitoba Airports operate a 3000'x75' gravel strip with terminal and remote controlled lighting about two miles from the community. Ground Gardewine-North provides freight transportation service to Ilford either by road or the Hudson Bay Railway, depending on road conditions Via Rail provides passenger and parcel services three times per week between Churchill and Thompson or Winnipeg. Carload shipments are handled by the CNR through The Pas. The Julie Lindal School is operated by the Frontier School Division, Area 1.