Apply for a Child Abuse Register search
The Child Abuse Register contains the names of people that the provincial court or family court has found to have caused harm to a child. You can apply for a Child Abuse Register search to confirm that your name isn’t in the register.
Apply for a Child Abuse Register search to confirm that your name isn’t in the register.
The Child Abuse Register keeps a record of the names of people that the provincial court or family court has found (during a court process in Nova Scotia) to have caused harm to a child.
The Department of Community Services uses the Child Abuse Register to screen prospective foster parents, adoptive parents, and employees or volunteers who work with children. Child protection workers also use the register to help determine if a child needs protective services.
Confirmation letter
If your name isn’t found in the Child Abuse Register, you receive a letter (embossed for authenticity) that you can share with any agency, organization or employer. The letter confirms that the name provided isn’t in the register. It also confirms the date the register was searched for the name.
If an agency, organization or employer receives a letter confirming a person isn’t in the Child Abuse Register, that result is only current as of the date the register search was completed.
Eligibility
You can apply for a Child Abuse Register check if you have contact with children 18 or younger for your job or volunteer work. You can only apply for a check for your own name.
How to apply
- Apply online.
- Check the application for details on all required supporting documents.
- Submit your completed application and supporting documents.
How long it takes
It should take 2 to 3 weeks to get a confirmation letter in the mail. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your form hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
There is no cost to apply.
Before you start
Make sure you have government-issued identification (like a health card, driver’s licence, Secure Certificate of Indian Status or passport).
Apply online
When you apply online you need to upload any supporting documents in PDF, JPG or PNG format.
You can use the Child Abuse Register Request for Search (Form A) (PDF 90 kB) if you’re unable to submit the form online. Send your completed form and supporting documents by mail.