Vulnerable Person Registry
The Vulnerable Persons Registry is a service in Barrie that allows caregivers of vulnerable persons to submit vital information to a database that will be used by police and other emergency services during a crisis situation. This registry gives police quick access to critical information about a registered vulnerable person. It can provide police with emergency contact information, detailed physical descriptions, known routines, favorite attractions or special needs of the vulnerable individual. This information can assist officers in communicating with, attending a residence of, or dealing with an emergency involving a vulnerable individual.
A Vulnerable Person is defined as a person who due to a medical, mental health or physical condition may exhibit patterns of behaviour that may pose a danger to that person. This could include:
- A tendency to wander
- The inability to communicate
- Fascinations or attractions (water, construction sites etc.)
- Social responses (fear of strangers, aggression)
Examples of Vulnerable Persons may include Persons with:
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- an Acquired Brain Injury
- a Mental Health condition that causes a person to exhibit the behaviours above
Parents or caregivers of a vulnerable person living in Barrie can submit this information one of two ways:
- Online registration is available on the Barrie Police Service’s website. Online registration is preferable as you will receive a yearly email reminder to update information, which is much easier than submitting new handwritten forms each year.
- Printable registration forms can be printed from the website or picked up from police headquarters (see address below). Completed forms must be accompanied by a current photograph of the vulnerable person, and may be submitted in person or mailed to:
Barrie Police Service
Att’n: Crime Prevention Unit
110 Fairview Road
Barrie, ON L4N 8X8
***Please note that it is the responsibility of the caregiver or vulnerable person to update the registration annually (including a new photo) to keep the registration active. This may be done online or by submitting new hardcopy forms***
During the registration, you will be asked to provide information such as:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Physical descriptors (Include marks, scars and/or tattoos)
- Contact information
- Special needs
- Methods of approach
- Objects of attraction
- A photo of the person’s face. Please note that the photo must be in JPEG (.jpg) format.
In the event of an emergency responding officers and other responding emergency service workers will have immediate access to this registry. This can help provide vital information in a timely manner and reduces the likelihood that critical information is overlooked.
*Please note that if you are completing the printable form, you will need to attach a recent photo of the individual being registered. Registration forms must be mailed or delivered to Barrie Police Headquarters: 110 Fairview Road, Barrie ON, L4n 8X8
If I don't live in Barrie, can I still use the registry?
To use the registry the vulnerable person must live in Barrie. If they do not live within Barrie, check with other surrounding police services to see if they have a similar registry.
Will I need to quote the Report Number if I call the police?
No, during high stress situations, there is no expectation that you remember the report number. However, you should indicate that the individual is listed on the vulnerable person registry. Barrie Police Service will be able to verify the report number using the vulnerable person’s name or address.
Who has access to the Register?
Barrie Police Service personnel who require this information in the performance of their duties will have access to the information. There are strict regulations with respect to accessing and disseminating information. There is a Police Information Portal (P.I.P.) that is shared by all police agencies. The consent of the individual involved, or their parent/guardian, is required before any information is shared among police agencies.
During an emergency situation, police may be required to share this information with other emergency services such as fire or ambulance.
Can a profile be updated more than every year if there are changes? How do I do that?
Yes, however, only information that has a significant impact on policing response will be necessary. Examples include a change in address, school, or emergency contact. You do not need to report a change in hair cut or colour, for example, as the police are familiar with the changes that can be made and are more likely to notice height, weight and eye colour. Significant changes and/or updates can be completed by calling at 705-725-7025 ext. 2919.
Will I be notified when the annual renewal is required?
The renewals are the sole responsibility of the parent/guardian. It is recommended that you renew the registration during the month of the registrant’s birthday. An updated photo of the registrant is encouraged.
If there is an incident, do I need to notify police that the individual is registered as a vulnerable person?
It is preferable that you let the police know that the individual is already registered. In doing so, the information will be immediately disseminated to the police officers without having to ask the parents during a high stress situation.
How will this registry help if my child/dependent adult goes missing?
If the individual goes missing and is reported by the parent/guardian, information about his/her physical appearance, the most likely places where he/she would go to, as well as triggers, stimulants, and de-escalation techniques will be provided to every police officer in the area to look for the missing person.
How do I register my child /dependent with Project Lifesaver?
Prior to registering with Project Lifesaver Simcoe, participants must first register with the Barrie Police Service’s Vulnerable Person’s Registry. For further information on Project Lifesaver Simcoe click here or contact Senior Helpers at 1-249-888-0249.