Protection of Children and Vulnerable Persons Policy

2.1 Scope

This policy applies to all KYO staff, contractors, and volunteers, including individuals engaged in the delivery of KYO programs, activities, and events both in person and online.

2.2 Definitions

• Child: An individual under 16 years of age, or a person aged 16–17 who is under the care of a child protection authority.
• Vulnerable Person: A youth aged 16–17, or any person aged 18+ who may be unable to protect themselves from abuse or neglect due to age, disability, illness, or other circumstances.
• Abuse: Any action or inaction causing, or placing someone at risk of, harm. Abuse may be physical, sexual, emotional, neglectful, or financial in nature, and may occur once or repeatedly.
• Physical Abuse: Inflicting injury, inadequate supervision, or patterns of neglect.
• Sexual Abuse: Exploitation, molestation, or failure to protect from sexual harm.
• Emotional Abuse: Actions that damage dignity, self-worth, or mental health.
• Neglect: Failure to provide adequate care, supervision, or basic needs.
• Financial Abuse: Exploitation or misuse of funds or assets belonging to a vulnerable person.

4.1 Police Vulnerable Sector Screening Check

All staff and volunteers are required to provide proof of a current Police Vulnerable Sector Screening Check prior to participating in KYO programs. Screening documentation must be reviewed, approved, and recorded by the KYOs Operations Manager.

4.2 Ongoing Compliance

Staff and volunteers must maintain valid and up-to-date clearance, and KYO reserves the right to request updated checks at regular intervals or when circumstances require.

5.1 Good Practices

All staff and volunteers are required to:

• Treat every individual with respect, dignity, and fairness.
• Communicate clearly at a level appropriate to the participant’s age and understanding.
• Respect privacy and encourage independence wherever possible.
• Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement.
• Ensure appropriate supervision ratios for safe program delivery.
• Ensure children under the age of 10 are not left unsupervised.
• Contact parents or guardians if a child under 10 is present without adult supervision.

5.2 Prohibited Practices

The following practices are strictly prohibited:

• Corporal punishment or physical discipline.
• Denial of basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, or program participation.
• Leaving children unsupervised.
• Harsh, degrading, or humiliating treatment.
• Confinement of children by locking exits or restricting movement.
• Any form of abuse—physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, or financial.
• Developing unsanctioned personal relationships with participants outside of KYO programming.

6.1 Legal Obligation

Under Section 72(1) of Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act, any person who has reasonable grounds to suspect a child may be in need of protection must immediately report this suspicion to a Children’s Aid Society (CAS). This duty applies to everyone and carries special responsibilities for professionals working with children.

6.2 Reporting Procedure

If abuse is suspected or disclosed:

• Call CAS immediately. Proof is not required; reasonable grounds are sufficient.
• Inform your supervisor of your intention to call CAS. You may identify the child but must not disclose details of the suspicion.
• After calling CAS, notify your supervisor, who will then inform the the Chair of the Board of Directors.
• Seek medical attention if needed. If abuse is suspected, do not notify parents or guardians until advised by CAS.
• If the child is in immediate danger, contact the police first, followed by CAS.
• Avoid discussing the situation with parents, guardians, or colleagues not directly involved.
• Document the incident and actions taken, in accordance with KYO procedures.