Employers of social workers and social service workers can now submit mandatory reports to the College through an online form. These updates aim to increase efficiency and streamline the reporting process. The online form can be accessed here.
It’s essential for employers to understand their legal responsibility regarding the mandatory reporting process. When there are concerns about the practice or conduct of a College registrant, employers are expected to promptly submit a report to the College. This requirement is crucial in safeguarding the public from unqualified, incompetent and unfit practitioners.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MANDATORY REPORTING
What is a mandatory report?
A mandatory report is a written report submitted by employers, College registrants and Health Information Custodians that shares concerns related to the practice or conduct of a College registrant. When a report is filled about a registrant, it allows the College to take action to protect the public.
For more detailed information, click here.
There are four circumstances when employers must submit a mandatory report
- If you terminate the employment of a College registrant for reasons of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity.
- If you intended to terminate the employment of a College registrant for reasons of professional misconduct, incompetence or incapacity, but the registrant resigned before you could do so.
- If you become aware that a College registrant who is currently employed by you or has been employed by you in the past has been convicted of an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada involving sexual conduct.
- If you find reasonable grounds to believe that a College registrant has sexually abused a client.
What does the College do when it receives a report?
The College will review the report and any information about the registrant, assess the risk to the public, and determine the appropriate response.
Not all reports lead to a formal investigation. An investigation may not be necessary where the employer has already taken steps such as providing the registrant with remedial education, imposing practice restrictions or ongoing supervision to protect the public.
If an investigation is opened, the registrant will be given an opportunity to respond. Depending on the findings and if there is a concern about risk to the public, the College may refer the registrant to a formal hearing. Potential outcomes include reprimands, practice monitoring, suspension or revocation of registration. Registrants found incapacitated may be required to seek medical treatment and ongoing monitoring before returning to practice.
More information on what happens when a report is filed can be found on the College’s website.
To file a mandatory report, submit a Reporting Form.
For more detailed information about the mandatory reporting process, please review the Mandatory Reporting Guide.
Learn more about navigating mandatory reporting here.