CHURCH BOARD GUIDE TO A CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY


all allegations seriously. The spokesperson should also understand the legal concerns associated with making public comments, and be briefed by the church’s attorney before meeting with the media. Also, develop a clear position statement of your church regarding


child sexual abuse. This statement can be released if an allegation of abuse occurs. Having a carefully prepared statement is far superior to making no comment. This is your opportunity to influence public opinion positively by emphasizing your awareness of the problem of child abuse, your concern for victims, and the extensive steps your church has taken to reduce the risk and provide a safe environment for children. This is no time for silence or “no comment.” Take the initia- tive in maintaining a positive public image of your church.


A Response Checklist


Be prepared in advance. Have a plan to respond to allega- tions of sexual misconduct if they should ever occur.


Take all allegations seriously. Do not engage in denial, min- imization, or blame. Follow up on all allegations.


Collect in writing all relevant information concerning the allegation.


Promptly fulfill any state reporting obligation concerning child abuse.


Notify your insurance agent, appropriate judicatory lead- ers, and church attorney concerning the allegation.


Place appropriate restrictions on alleged perpetrators of misconduct until the case is resolved.


Maintain strict confidentiality concerning all information. Communicate with congregational members on the basis of their need to know under the restrictions of a qualified privilege.


Provide support to the victim and the victim’s family.


55


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74