Police Reference Check

2.07 Police Reference Check

Policy Statement

The Police Reference check is part of the overall selection process when recruiting. This policy is not designed to replace sound hiring procedures but rather to enhance the process of securing high quality employees.

In keeping with screening requirements, a Police Reference Check shall be part of the final selection process for persons who are hired as an employee, or contractor or work as a volunteer.

Policy Implementation

Those undergoing a Police Reference Check shall also sign the Vulnerable Sector Screening form which is a part of the Police Reference Check program for individuals seeking employment.

The following persons shall be required to undergo a Police Reference Check:

• All employees hired, transferred, or promoted into positions that require direct unsupervised contact with children, youth and/or vulnerable adults;
• All volunteers who have direct unsupervised contact with children and/or vulnerable adults;
• All program participants who are also program volunteers and who have direct unsupervised contact with children, youth and/or vulnerable adults;
• Students completing placement hours as part of their co-op education courses;

In the event that there is insufficient time to obtain a Police Reference Check prior to placing an individual into a position, the individual shall only be allowed to assume the position if he/ she is directly supervised by senior employees. All employees and volunteers shall complete an Employee Police Record Declaration form and may be removed from the position if the Police Reference Check is not satisfactory. In addition, all employees are required to complete an Employee Police Record Declaration form annually and may be required to complete a new Police Reference Check if the Police Record Declaration is not satisfactory.

All applicants’ rights will be protected, as stated in the Ontario Human Rights Code.