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Guiding Principles. Safety, security, well-being of children Guidelines for workers Parental Confidence Risk management. Church Purpose. Provide safe and secure environment that includes formal, written policy: Prevent abuse or harm Protect children. It Can Happen.
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Guiding Principles • Safety, security, well-being of children • Guidelines for workers • Parental Confidence • Risk management
Church Purpose Provide safe and secure environment that includes formal, written policy: • Prevent abuse or harm • Protect children
It Can Happen “Child abuse is a fact of today’s society. It can happen at any time and in any church, large or small. The emotional trauma and personal tragedies related to this subject can be extreme and the risk of this occurring should not be ignored.”
Risks • Harm to children and families • Harm to church and members • Harm to Kingdom work • Harm to our witness • Liability
Risk Management: Elements • Policy • Training • Supervision • Records
Steps to Protect Children - I • Copy of statutory definitions of “child abuse” and copy of policy to each worker and leader. • “Two adult” rule • Supervision by leader ship • Worker applications – require and screen • Check worker references
Steps to Protect Children - II • Criminal background checks • Interview workers personally • Identification system • Drop-off and pick-up procedures • Keep church leaders informed
Reporting Child Abuse • Be familiar with state laws and process – “reason to believe” • Be observant • Establish procedure • Keep records
INCIDENTS & EMERGENCIES Incidents (Injuries) Training (first aid and CPR) Reports and procedure Emergencies (fire or natural) Training Procedures
Quo Nunc? • Develop list of policies needed • Review and evaluate existing policies • Set up the training • Inspect and evaluate facilities • Worker information, screening, and background checks