Child Abuse Registry – Winnipeg, MB

Provincial Child Protection and Registry Services

The Child Abuse Registry is a critical protective unit operating under the Department of Families within the Government of Manitoba. Located on the main floor of 777 Portage Avenue in Winnipeg, this office manages a centralized database of individuals who have been found to have abused a child. The primary mandate of the Registry is to enhance the safety and well-being of children by providing a screening mechanism for employers and organizations. It serves as a vital tool for child protection, allowing authorized bodies-such as child care centres, schools, and volunteer organizations-to determine if a prospective employee or volunteer presents a potential risk to children.

Scope and Legislative Authority

The operations of the Registry are governed by The Child and Family Services Act. Inclusion in the Registry occurs under specific legal circumstances: if a person is found guilty of a child abuse offence in criminal court, if a family court determines a child is in need of protection due to abuse, or if a Child Abuse Committee of a Child and Family Services (CFS) agency concludes that abuse has occurred. The Registry is not a public list; access is strictly controlled to balance public safety with privacy rights. Information is only disclosed to authorized applicants with the subject’s consent, or to peace officers and child protection workers in the execution of their duties.

Application and Screening Process

Individuals can apply for a Registry check on themselves (a self-check) or authorize an employer to do so. The office offers multiple application streams to accommodate residents:

• In-Person: Applicants can visit the Portage Avenue office directly. This method often allows for faster processing of the initial application intake.
• Online: A digital portal allows for the submission of applications and payment via credit card.
• Mail: Paper applications can be sent for processing, though this requires verified photocopies of identification.

The screening process is rigorous. A search will result in a clear check if no record is found, or a confirmation of listing if the individual is on the Registry. This documentation is a standard requirement for many employment sectors in Manitoba, particularly those involving trust or authority over minors.

Identification and Security Requirements

To maintain the integrity of the system, the Child Abuse Registry enforces strict identification requirements. Applicants must provide two valid pieces of government-issued ID. One piece must be primary identification that includes a photo, signature, date of birth, and full name (e.g., Driver’s Licence, Passport, Secure Certificate of Indian Status). The second piece can be secondary ID such as a Manitoba Health Card or Social Insurance Number. For mail applications, these documents must be verified by a witness who signs the photocopies to attest to their authenticity. Failure to meet these ID standards is the most common reason for application delays.

Fees and Exemptions

A standard fee applies to most applications, which covers the administrative costs of the search. However, the Government of Manitoba provides fee exemptions for specific categories to encourage volunteerism and support the foster care system. Checks are typically free for volunteers working with children, post-secondary students in practicum placements, and individuals applying to become foster parents or adoptive parents. Applicants claiming an exemption must typically provide verification from the organization they are joining. Payments for non-exempt applications can be made via credit card (online), or debit, cheque, and money order (in-person/mail).

Facility and Access

The office at 777 Portage Avenue is designed to be accessible, with a public counter on the first floor. It operates during standard government business hours. Visitors should be prepared for security protocols; while it is a public office, the sensitive nature of the data requires a controlled environment. The location is well-served by Winnipeg Transit, making it accessible for residents across the city. The staff are trained to handle inquiries with discretion and professionalism, recognizing the sensitive nature of background checks and the potential stress associated with the process.