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Volunteer Police Information Check FAQ

Special Olympics Canada and its Chapters have adopted comprehensive screening policies to help ensure safe and high-quality programs for all athletes.

All Special Olympics BC volunteers must complete a Police Information Check – Vulnerable Screening (also referred to a Criminal Record Check) before beginning any role and interactions with athletes.

This is one of a number of requirements that Special Olympics BC has in place to ensure we provide the safest possible environment throughout our programs and events.

We are committed to safe sport and ensuring the best possible quality and experiences for Special Olympics BC athletes.

After the Special Olympics BC Provincial Office receives the result of your check, staff will update your profile promptly, and then the appropriate contacts will follow up with you about volunteering opportunities. We sincerely thank you for your support to offer empowering sport experiences for athletes with intellectual disabilities!

How do I complete my Police Information Check – Vulnerable Screening?

  • Immediately after completing your online registration as a new volunteer, you will receive instructions on how to complete your Police Information Check. 
  • There are two ways to do it:
    Online through the Government of B.C. 💻
    OR
    In person at an RCMP detachment or municipal law enforcement department 🚶🏽
  • It’s easy to get it done!
  • Your efforts ensure safe and quality sport experiences for athletes.

How do I apply online? 💻

Step 1: Go to the Government of B.C. Police Information Check Website
👉 https://justice.gov.bc.ca/criminalrecordcheck

Step 2: Enter Special Olympics BC's Access Code: FASDVRNCVC

Step 3: Verify Your Identity

Online Application Resources 

  1. SOBC's guide to the online process
  2. Government of B.C. video walkthrough

How long could it take? ⏳

The Ministry of Justice typically processes Police Information Check applications within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on application volume.

Once completed, your Police Information Check result will be sent directly to Special Olympics BC.

How do I apply in person? 🚶🏽

Step 1: Download Special Olympics BC's PDF letter for volunteers

Step 2: Enter the date and your name in the fillable fields, and print the document.

Step 3: Bring the letter with you to your local RCMP detachment or municipal law enforcement department. This letter should waive any Police Information Check fee. You will also need to show 2 pieces of government-issued photo ID (e.g. BC Driver’s Licence, Passport, Permanent Residency Card, etc.) along with this letter.

How long could it take? ⏳

When applying in person, you will get your Police Information Check result immediately.

Please send a copy by email to screening@specialolympics.bc.ca or by mail to the Special Olympics BC Provincial Office: 210-3701 Hastings St., Burnaby, B.C., V5C 2H6, Attn: Volunteer Services.

Why do I have to do this?

  • This step is required in Special Olympics BC’s Volunteer Screening Policy
  • It is in place to help ensure we provide the safest possible environment and best possible experience in every program.
  • Our requirements are consistent with other sport and community organizations that work with potentially vulnerable people.
  • Special Olympics BC is committed to providing a safe and high-quality environment for all our athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Will I have to do my Police Information Check – Vulnerable Screening again in future?

  • Police Information Checks expire after 5 years. When a Special Olympics BC volunteer’s Police Information Check expires, Special Olympics BC staff will contact them directly well before expiry, to ensure you have plenty of time to stay current with policies and help offer safe sport experiences.
  • Reminders will be sent:
    o    15 weeks before the expiry date
    o    8 weeks before expiry
    o    2 weeks before expiry  

Is there a cost?

  • There is no cost if you submit online. Special Olympics BC participates in the Criminal Record Review Program, which allows checks to be submitted online using the Government of B.C. website and BC Services Card app at no charge to the applicant. 
  • If you submit your application in person, in many communities, the cost of a Police Information Check – Vulnerable Screening is free when it's requested for volunteer purposes and providing the necessary paperwork. In circumstances where there are costs for completing the check, applicants may apply to the Local Committee in their community to be considered for reimbursement.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, please contact screening@specialolympics.bc.ca and we will be very happy to help.

Thank you for your commitment to ensuring safe and quality sport experiences for all Special Olympics BC athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities!