Protecting the Most Vulnerable: New Risk Bulletin Helps Organizations Build Safer Environments

TORONTO, ON, MARCH 19, 2026/insPRESS/ – Organizations at the core of Canadian communities, including schools, faith groups, not-for-profits, and cultural institutions, share a common role: serving others. Many of these organizations support vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities.

That responsibility carries both purpose and risk. It also requires strong, well-defined safeguards.

Ecclesiastical Insurance has released a new risk bulletin, Working with Vulnerable People, to support organizations in building consistent, effective screening practices. Protecting those you serve begins well before any interaction takes place.

Screening as a Risk Control

When staff or volunteers work closely with vulnerable individuals, the risk of abuse, including physical, sexual, verbal, or financial harm, must be actively managed. A structured hiring and screening process is one of the most effective controls available. However, many organizations, particularly those with volunteer-based workforces, may lack formalized approaches.

The bulletin outlines key considerations, including the types of record checks available in Canada, how to determine appropriate screening levels by role, how to obtain and interpret results, and how to manage that information in line with privacy and human rights requirements.

Beyond Screening

Screening is one component of a broader abuse prevention framework. The bulletin also highlights the importance of clear policies and procedures, structured onboarding and training, ongoing supervision, and confidential reporting processes for concerns or incidents.

Establishing these measures helps organizations reduce risk exposure while strengthening trust with the communities they serve.

Practical guidance for organizations

Ecclesiastical has a long-standing focus on supporting organizations that strengthen Canadian communities. This bulletin provides practical, plain-language guidance that can be implemented across organizations of varying sizes and resources.

Working with Vulnerable People is available on the Ecclesiastical Risk Hub at ecclesiastical.ca.

About Ecclesiastical Insurance:

Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc is a specialist commercial insurance company and a proud member of the Benefact Group. We are deeply committed to protecting the organizations that enrich the lives of others, preserving Canada’s distinct communities, cultures and history, and supporting initiatives that improve the lives of people in need.

Media Contact:

Colin Robertson
Chief Experience Officer
Ecclesiastical Insurance
Phone: 1 416 484 3984
Email: crobertson@ecclesiastical.ca