The Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms alongside other relevant legal standards, recognize the dignity and worth of every person and provides for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status or disability, that is contrary to law, and provides protection against discrimination, including harassment based on a ground of discrimination. The Criminal Code of Canada provides for the protection from conduct that constitutes “criminal harassment” and from violence.
The overall aim for the Screening in Faith policy is to ensure that there is a safe environment in every parish, ministry, and activity.
Screening in Faith is designed to exclude any who are unsuitable for a particular ministry or likely to offend.
In the Diocese of Ottawa, we have policies and procedures to ensure that we are keeping clear records of how, when, and why a person has been screened.
It is important to assess the level of power, authority, and control of those who minister; the level of vulnerability of those being ministered to, and the risk that harm could be committed by some form of abuse. Determining the risk level and assigning a low, medium, or high rating to each ministry is a key step in the process.
POLICE RECORD CHECKS
On request, police will check their records on applications seeking employment and/or volunteer work. The check includes national and local police databases. Information on criminal convictions and outstanding charges, as well as incidents of all negative police contacts will be considered for release.
The information it generates is limited, however, so other forms of screening should also be used.
Who needs a Police Records Check? Examples of persons requiring a background check Examples of persons requiring a Vulnerable Sector Check
The overall aim for the Screening in Faith policy is to ensure that there is a safe environment in every parish, ministry, and activity.
Safe Environments
When we talk about screening we talk about safe people. We must not forget that it is also very important to create safe environments, that is, safe places and safe situations.
Points to consider
● two adults are required to be present during any activity for young children or youth
● offices & activity rooms must have windows that allow an outside person to see in
● in the case of vulnerable persons, there should be two leaders or an open door
● a leader should not meet alone with a vulnerable person but should be joined by another leader if the meeting is to be private
● keep the door slightly open whenaccompanying a vulnerable person on the bathroom
● during diaper changing, the changing table should be in view of another nursery worker
SCREENING CLERGY
In the Diocese of Ottawa, we have many policies and procedures in place to ensure that we are effectively screening our clergy. The Bishop’s Office takes responsibility for the ongoing screening of all clergy in our Diocese.
Ten safe steps for clergy
Who must be screened?
• churchwardens, treasurers, envelope secretaries, youth leaders, Sunday School teachers, pastoral care members
• all volunteers working with vulnerable people
For all others, assess each job description, to determine the level of risk.
Do we need to screen everyone, even occasional helpers in the nursery?
Are there special requirements for pastoral care visitors?
Who does the screening?
Can you ask if someone has a police record?
What about records from other groups such as Scouts?
How do we screen those who are under 18?
How are types of abuse other than sexual, e.g. abuse of authority, to be checked?
What is our responsibility re judgement calls?
What is our Duty of Care?
What should we do if there is a ‘Safe Church’ concern involving something or someone in our parish?
What is the benefit of interviewing volunteers?
Are the churchwardens and clergy liable if there is an offence in a parish?
How useful is a Police Records Check?
How long is a Police Record Check valid?
Can I submit a Nexus card instead of a Police Record Check?
The Ontario Human Rights Code and the Occupational Health and Safety Act provide protection for individuals and workers from harassment and violence. The Criminal Code protects people from acts of criminal harassment and violence.
The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa (the “Diocese”) is committed to building and preserving a safe, productive, and healthy working environment for its clergy, lay employees, students, and volunteers (“Staff”) that promotes the values of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and one that is consistent with the laws and teachings of the Anglican Church of Canada.