Creating Child Safe policies

Churches have many unwritten codes of practice and behaviour. Sometimes though, it helps to write them down. When written they become firm guides, yardsticks for performance, and ways to reinforce the type of culture, attitudes and behaviour we want to see in our churches. This applies especially to the way we treat children.

For this reason it's become common practice in our churches to have a written 'Child Protection' policy.

Fortunately there are many good examples that can be borrowed and 'massaged' to suit our needs as churches.
However, when you look for a good policy here are some important things to look for and ensure you've included.

1. An introduction affirming the church’s commitment to the safety and protection of children and the purpose of the policy.
2. How volunteers and employees recognise and respond to suspicions of child abuse and neglect.
3. General plus ministry specific codes of conduct and standards of care for ensuring the safety of children, including bullying by other children.
4. Recruitment and training of volunteers and employees.
5. Guidelines for handling complaints and breaches of the policy.

As the policy is being produced the following needs to be considered.
1. Is the policy written in a clear and easily understandable way
2. Does the policy identify any relevant government or legislative requirements (such as the need for Working with children Checks)
3. Does the policy specify responsibilities, supporting procedures and standards?
4. Will the policy be shared with all relevant audiences including parents, carers and children (where appropriate)?
8. Have all employees and volunteers been made aware of and had the opportunity to read the policy? (Volunteers could be encouraged to sign a written statement indicating they have read the policy.)
9. Is the policy current and when will it be evaluated and reviewed?