Child Abuse Sample Policy

WHEREAS we acknowledge that the abuse of children (sexual, physical, and emotional) can happen anywhere, including in this Church or in other facilities used by our church in children's and youth ministry;

And WHEREAS we understand that the effects of such abuse have a profound short-term and long-term impact on the victim;

And WHEREAS we understand that, as members of this Church, we must seek to ensure that children and youth who participate in any programs offered through our church, may do so without fear of abuse;

And WHEREAS we acknowledge that a person who would prey upon children may see this Church as a place where he/she may have access to children or youth;

And WHEREAS we understand that any abuse, or allegation of abuse, can seriously compromise our witness for Christ within our community and beyond;

We, the members of this Church, solemnly agree to adopt the following Policy for Child Abuse Prevention, effective immediately and dated this _____ day of ____________________, 20_____.

Policy for Child Abuse Prevention

  1. All persons desiring to work with children/youth through any ministry (current or future) of this church, must first meet the following qualifications:
    • Be a member in good standing of a local Christian church for at least 6 months;
    • Complete an application form;
    • Upon request, authorize a police check. A record involving any abuse of children will, in all cases, disqualify the individual from working with children or youth through this Church;
    • View the video entitled "Reducing the Risk" or a similar video approved by the pastor (or designate within the church);
    • Be interviewed by a board comprised of the pastor and at least two individuals holding leadership positions within the Church.
  2. At no time will young children be left in an individual's care behind closed doors or in an isolated and private location.
  3. When teens are involved in children's or youth ministry, they will be supervised and will always meet with children in a classroom or area equipped with a window or open door.
  4. All classrooms will be modified so that, if there is no other way to view the room easily, a window will be installed in the classroom door.
  5. Efforts will be made periodically (and at least on an annual basis) to inform the congregation of the dangers of child abuse and to remind them of the importance of strict adherence to this policy.
  6. Individuals who work with children and youth will be reminded of the importance of avoiding potentially compromising situations in which an allegation of abuse could be made.
  7. We will strive to ensure that parents are made aware of the precautions being taken to protect their children. Parental consent forms will be used for all special activities or events, and for any event which requires an overnight stay.
  8. In the event that any allegation of abuse of a child or youth is made, it will be reported immediately to the appropriate police authorities and to the pastor. The process will be carefully documented, including dates, times, and content of all conversations pertaining to the alleged abuse. If the pastor is accused of abuse, the Area Minister will be contacted and the guidelines contained in the Moral Failure document will be followed.
  9. Any incident in which there is a concern for the safety or well being of a child under the care or supervision of our Church will be taken seriously and may be investigated.
  10. This policy will be posted in the Church and will be read at each annual business meeting of the Church.

(Pastor) _________________________ .........................Date____________________________

(Clerk) __________________________

(Deacon) ________________________

(Deacon) ________________________

(Deacon) ________________________

(Sunday School Superintendent) _______________________________

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