Download - Safe Sanctuary
Wesley Freedom’s Abuse Prevention Policy
The Abuse Prevention Policy is intended to protect three groups of people:
Our Children and Youth
Our Church
Our Volunteers
Role of Parents and CongregationNeed our entire community of faith to work
together to protect our children and youth.Parents and congregation are needed to help
with activities of children and youth.For example: greeters, door monitors, snack,
chaperones, administration, teachers/leadersReport any concerns regarding safety.
Initial Requirements for Regular Workers:6 months attendance or paired with someone
who has attended for 6 months (except employees)
Prior to service complete:QuestionnaireParticipation CovenantTraining3 Reference FormsBackground check authorization form
Continuing Requirements for Regular WorkersAnnually complete by September 30QuestionnaireParticipation CovenantTrainingEvery 5 years authorize:Background check12 month break, complete everything againWear badge when serving
Background ChecksOnce you submit your paperwork and
background authorization form, you will receive an e-mail with a link directing you to the Protect My Ministry site.
You will input your own information. Protect My Ministry will notify WFUMC when
you have completed your information.A background check will be requested and run.The report will be read and noted in your file.NO reports are copied and NO identifying
information is maintained in your file.
Background Checks Another option for background checks is
going through the Maryland State Police. You must use our authorization number.
Obtain a form in the Education Office. Follow the instructions provided. You will also sign a release that will be maintained in your file.
You will be responsible for the cost of doing the background check.
The results will be mailed to church and will be filed in your folder.
Occasional WorkersPrior to service and annually must complete:QuestionnaireIncluding contact information for 3 references
Must be paired with a Regular Worker
Must not be left alone with or in charge of children or youth
Youth WorkersPrior to service and annually must:Have two recommendations from or interviews by non-related adults.Complete Participation CovenantAttend training that at least covers how to appropriately interact with children.Must always be supervised by an adult.Must never be left alone with a child or youth.
Who Decides and HowCase-by-case at the discretion of SPRCConvictions that disqualify a volunteer:
Crimes of violence involving a family member or child, abuse or sexual abuse.Crimes requiring registration on or reporting to a sex offender website.
Limited number of staff or volunteers assist.Strive to maintain confidentiality of personal,
sensitive information, but not guaranteed.Appeals can be made to senior pastor, whose
decision is final.
2 Adult RuleExceptions:Emergency
Window/open door and hall monitor
Window/open door for a short time
Sign In and Sign OutElementary and Younger: Parent’s sign in and
outPermission forms are available for older sibling or designated adult to sign in or out.
Middle School:If requested
High SchoolNone
It is recommended that youth sign themselves in for all activities.
Offsite Youth ActivitiesTwo Adult Rule
Conform as much as possible. Depending on nature, duration, and location of activity
SleepingNo-coed rooms. 2 adults or adults and youth separated. Adults and youth in separate beds. Transgender rooms if requested
DrivingApproved workers. 2 non-related adults or caravan. Wait for parents outside vehicle. Cell phones.
There will be additional training prior to trips and events
RatiosRecommended adult-to-child ratios:Infants and toddlers: 1 to 3Elementary: 1 to 5Middle school: 1 to 7High School: 1 to 8Community Events:
Reasonable supervision. Parents or guardians are expected to provide supervision to the Children and Youth attending the event.
Appropriate ContactSome physical contact is appropriate and
needed.Appropriate placeAppropriate mannerEspecially if child/youth initiates.
Reporting and RespondingState law requires reporting, even if not sure.
CC Dept. Of Social Services 410-386-3434 www.dhr.state.md.us
BWC Policy (Para. 2820)Separate alleged victim and accused.Notify direct supervisor. Notify senior pastor, unless he/she is involved.Incident report and cooperate with investigation.Maintain confidentiality.*This information will be provided in your leadership materials.
BWC UMC RequirementsProvide signed document yearly verifying
compliance.Check the U.S. Department of Justice
National Sex Offender Public Registry Website twice a year.
Maintain records.
Quiz – this is your training documentationPlease take a few moments to complete the
quiz.
Be sure you include your name and today’s date.
Thank YouYour service and your love are very much
appreciated and very important in the lives of our children and youth.
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” Matthew 18:5 NRSV