Volunteer Screening

Volunteer Screening Requirements

Overview

GCRA is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants. In accordance with Ringette Ontario's Screening Policy, volunteers may be required to complete screening requirements based on the nature of their role and the level of interaction they have with athletes.

Screening requirements help protect participants and ensure that individuals serving in positions of trust and authority meet the standards established by Ringette Ontario.

Who Requires Screening?

Ringette Ontario uses a risk-based screening model that categorizes volunteer positions based on responsibility, authority, access to athletes, and financial oversight.

Volunteers serving in positions that involve direct contact with athletes, supervision of minors, or significant decision-making responsibilities may be required to complete screening requirements, including a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC).

Examples may include:

• Coaches
• Assistant Coaches
• Trainers
• Team Managers
• On-Ice Helpers
• Executive and Operational Leadership positions, as determined by Ringette Ontario and GCRA

Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

A Vulnerable Sector Check is the highest level of police screening available in Canada for individuals seeking to volunteer or work in positions of trust or authority with vulnerable persons.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Check.

Volunteers requiring a VSC may apply online through the Ottawa Police Service or their local police service.

Before You Apply

1. Obtain the current GCRA Volunteer Screening Letter by contacting the Director of Safety, Discipline & Appeals at gcrasafety@gmail.com.
2. Complete the Vulnerable Sector Check application through your local police service.
3. Select the option to receive your results electronically, where available.
4. Save a copy of your completed VSC to your computer or mobile device.

If fingerprinting is required as part of the screening process, please contact the Director of Safety, Discipline & Appeals for further instructions.

Uploading Documents to RAMP

All required screening documents must be uploaded to your personal RAMP registration profile.

Once your Vulnerable Sector Check or other required screening documentation has been received:

1. Save an electronic copy of the document.
2. Log in to your RAMP account.
3. Navigate to your profile and screening requirements section.
4. Upload the required document(s) as instructed.
5. Ensure all required screening items show as submitted.

Screening documents will be reviewed and verified by GCRA in accordance with Ringette Ontario policies.

Volunteers are responsible for ensuring all required screening documentation has been uploaded and approved. Failure to submit required documents may result in the volunteer being ineligible to participate in team activities until compliance requirements have been met.

Submission Requirements

All required screening documentation must be uploaded through RAMP and approved before a volunteer may participate in sanctioned activities.

Volunteers who have not met the applicable screening requirements may not be eligible to:

• Participate in practices or games
• Be on the bench during games
• Supervise dressing rooms
• Participate in dryland activities
• Travel with teams
• Hold positions requiring screening under Ringette Ontario policy

Annual Screening Requirements

Depending on the screening category assigned to the volunteer position, Ringette Ontario may require:

• Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)
• Criminal Record Check (CRC)
• Screening Disclosure Form
• Screening Renewal Form
• Annual Attestation Form

Volunteers are responsible for maintaining current screening documentation and immediately disclosing any changes that may affect their screening status.

Important Timelines

Screening requirements should be completed as early as possible. Processing times for police checks can vary throughout the year and may take several weeks to complete.

Volunteers are encouraged to begin the screening process immediately upon accepting a volunteer position to avoid delays in roster approval or participation eligibility.

Helpful Resources

• GCRA Volunteer Screening Letter
• Ringette Ontario Screening Policy
• Ottawa Police Service - Vulnerable Sector Check
• Ringette Ontario Safe Sport Resources

Questions

For questions regarding screening requirements, eligibility, fingerprinting, or RAMP document upload, please contact the Director of Safety, Discipline & Appeals.

Helpful links:

• Ringette Ontario Screening Policy