Mandating Safe Places Certification

Guidelines

Safe Places advocates that ALL Youth Service providers have a responsibility to mandate Safe Places – Certification within their organization. Depending on the role each individual has with youth there are three different certification types to choose from.

We understand that there are exceptions, where individuals very infrequently come into contact with youth in their role as a volunteer, employee or community member and so we have outlined the following recommendations for groups and individuals to consider:

Under 18’s – As of 2019, the RCMP is unable to produce criminal record checks for individuals under the age of 18. It is, therefore, not possible for individuals under 18 years of age to receive Safe Places – Certification.

Certification Guidelines

Public Directory

To determine if someone is Safe Places Certified check the Safe Places Online Portal – Public Directory

Someone may not appear in the Public Directory for the following reasons:

  • They have not completed their Certification
  • They have not completed their recertification requirements
  • They have not completed their annual declaration
  • They do not qualify to become Youth certified

A word of caution – The safety of our youth should be your priority!

  • It is up to each organization to outline the Safe Places requirements for their operations, programs, or events. They must also ensure all volunteers and staff meet the requirements associated with implementing Safe Places certification as a screening tool. More details are outlined in the affiliate agreement.
  • Individuals and organizations should always assess the risk of leaving children under the supervision of anyone who does not have the appropriate record checks or their Safe Places certification.
  • Organizations should contact Safe Places for clarification on any of the guidelines outlined or for support in implementing Safe Places
  • Individuals should always check with the organization they are affiliated with to determine the Safe Places requirements for their event or program.