Step Six: Train adults to recognize and respond to abuse
MINISTRY LEADERS, ADVOCATES, Articles Steps to Safe ChurchTraining the adults in the church is a vital step to keeping children safe. At a minimum every person who interacts with children needs training before interacting with youth in the church. Training includes:
Signs of sex abuse and sex…
Step Five: Implement Guidelines for Youth Leaders
MINISTRY LEADERS, ADVOCATES, Articles Steps to Safe ChurchBoundaries are important and keep people safe. The fence around a power plant is meant to keep people a safe distance from danger within. Boundaries are also loving. We tell kids to not put their fingers in the outlet because we don’t want…
Sample Standards for Interactions with Minors and/or Vulnerable Adults
MINISTRY LEADERS, ADVOCATES, Articles Steps to Safe Church(Taken from virtusonline.org)
Examples of appropriate contact with minors for Church programs include, but are not limited to:
Verbal praise
Brief side hugs or arm around the shoulder
Brief pat on the shoulder or upper back
Handshakes,…
Step Four: Assess Your Space
Articles, MINISTRY LEADERS, ADVOCATES Steps to Safe ChurchChildren need a safe environment in which they can learn God’s Word. Careful facility design is an important step to overall child safety. Providing a safe environment for kids involves regular safety inspections for items like outlet covers…
Sample Site Assessment Checklist
MINISTRY LEADERS, ADVOCATES, Articles Steps to Safe ChurchThis checklist is not exhaustive. It is meant to be a starting point and should be adapted to meet the individual needs of each facility.
Room security
Room access is secured so children cannot enter or leave without supervision.
Staircases…