Policies

Operation Freedom Paws Equality Statement

Operation Freedom Paws Canada is committed to treating all clients with equal respect and consideration, regardless of gender, color, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, LGBTQ2S+ community, or any other distinguishing characteristic. Our approach ensures that every individual receives fair and unbiased treatment, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We believe in upholding the principles of equality and diversity, and we strive to reflect these values in all aspects of our service and interactions.

Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy

OFP Canada is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive work and training environment. We strictly prohibit sexual harassment and all forms of unlawful discrimination, ensuring that everyone can participate in our programs without fear.

Harassment and discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, national origin, religious creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, physical disability, legally protected medical conditions, family care or medical leave status, veteran status, or any other protected status under British Columbia or Canadian federal law are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

1. Definitions

• Harassment: Unwelcome conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This includes verbal comments, physical actions, or visual displays.
• Discrimination: Unjust treatment of individuals based on any of the protected characteristics listed above.

2. Reporting

• We encourage clients who experience or witness harassment or discrimination to report incidents as soon as possible.
• Reports should be made to the Executive Director or Assistant Executive Director.
• All reports will be handled promptly and confidentially, with respect for the privacy of everyone involved.

3. Consequences

• Violations of this policy may lead to disciplinary action, including termination of services.
• OFP Canada is committed to enforcing this policy to ensure a respectful training environment.

4. Training

• We provide training on this policy to ensure all clients understand their rights and responsibilities.
• Regular training sessions will be held to emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment.

Commitment

OFP Canada is dedicated to upholding this Code of Conduct. We strive to create a supportive atmosphere where everyone can thrive and feel safe. Open dialogue is encouraged, and we will continuously work to enhance our practices to protect and promote the well-being of all clients.

1.7.1 Introduction

Freedom Paws Canada is committed to creating a respectful, supportive, and safe environment for everyone involved in our programs.

Because we work closely together—clients, staff, volunteers, and trainers—misunderstandings or disagreements may occasionally occur. When they do, we encourage respectful communication and early problem solving.

Resolving concerns fairly and constructively helps strengthen our community and allows Freedom Paws Canada to continue improving its programs.

Anyone who believes they have been treated unfairly has the right to raise a concern using the process outlined in this policy.

1.7.2 What Is a Complaint

A complaint is when someone believes that a situation, decision, or behaviour within the Freedom Paws Canada program is unfair, inappropriate, or unacceptable.

Examples may include:
• Unfair treatment
• Harassment or bullying
• Discrimination
• Unprofessional behaviour
• Decisions or actions that negatively affect a participant or the organization

1.7.3 Purpose of the Policy

This policy provides a safe, respectful, and confidential way for clients, staff, and volunteers to address concerns.

Our goals are to:
• resolve problems fairly and promptly
• maintain a respectful training environment
• ensure concerns are taken seriously
• support learning and improvement within the organization

1.7.4 Scope

This policy applies to everyone involved in Freedom Paws Canada programs, including:
• Clients
• Staff members
• Volunteers
• Trainers
• Board members
• Visitors or third‑party participants

The policy applies to situations occurring during Freedom Paws Canada programs, activities, or operations.

1.7.5 Confidentiality

Freedom Paws Canada will treat complaints as confidential as possible while still allowing a fair review of the concern.

Information will only be shared with individuals who need to be involved in resolving the issue.

If the person raising the complaint is a minor or unable to represent themselves, a parent, guardian, or support person may speak on their behalf.

1.7.6 Complaint Process

Step 1 – Informal Resolution
If possible, first speak with the person involved or with the trainer or staff member responsible for the activity.

Many concerns can be resolved quickly through open communication.

Timeframe: A response is normally provided within 5 working days.

Step 2 – Executive Director Review
If the concern cannot be resolved, a written complaint may be submitted to the Executive Director.

The Executive Director will review the concern and may speak with individuals involved.

Timeframe: A response is normally provided within 10 working days.

Step 3 – Board Review
If the concern remains unresolved, the complaint may be submitted in writing to the Freedom Paws Canada Board of Directors.

A designated Board member responsible for conflict resolution will review the matter.

Timeframe: The Board will provide a decision within 15 working days.

The Board’s decision will be final.

1.7.7 Possible Outcomes

After reviewing a complaint, Freedom Paws Canada may take appropriate action to resolve the situation.

Possible actions may include:
• Facilitated discussion or mediation
• Request for a written apology
• Formal warning
• Additional training or guidance
• Temporary suspension from program participation
• Removal from the program

Actions taken will depend on the nature and seriousness of the concern.

1.7.8 Support Person

At any stage of the complaint process, both the complainant and respondent may bring a support person to meetings related to the complaint.

A support person may be a family member, advocate, friend, or other individual chosen by the participant.

1.7.9 Protection from Retaliation

Freedom Paws Canada will not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern or participates in the complaint process in good faith.

Retaliation may include intimidation, threats, exclusion, or negative treatment because someone reported a concern.

1.7.10 Accessible Complaint Process

Freedom Paws Canada recognizes that some participants may require assistance to fully participate in the complaint process.

Reasonable accommodations may include:
• accepting verbal complaints
• assistance writing a complaint
• additional time for responses
• support persons or advocates
• alternative communication methods

1.7.11 Good Faith Complaints

All complaints must be made in good faith. Knowingly making false or malicious complaints may result in disciplinary action.

1.7.12 Record Keeping

Freedom Paws Canada will maintain confidential records of complaints and their resolution in order to support fairness, accountability, and continuous improvement.

The information you provide in your application will not be shared with third parties without your consent.

FP Canada considers all applications regardless of how questions are answered, provided applicants meet our eligibility criteria.  

Veterans and first responders are always given priority placement. Civilian applicants should expect longer waiting times due to limited space and the length of the program.