1. INTRODUCTION

• Everyone in the Ecclesia is responsible for the care and protection of children and reporting information about child abuse. “Children are a heritage from the LORD” (Psa 127:3) and should be cherished and nurtured by families and the ecclesia. Therefore, as brothers and sisters in Christ, the love of God compels us to do whatever we can to protect our family in Christ against this deadly evil.
• Sexual abuse is preventable using clear policies and procedures, coupled with a code of conduct. If abuse does happen, having policies and procedures will also help limit the damage to the victim, the ecclesia, and the name of God.
• This is a sample set of policies and procedures for the benefit of Christadelphian ecclesias in North America, based on similar documents prepared in the UK and Australia. Ecclesias are expected to customize these sample documents for their own use.
• This policy applies to all members, non-members, baptized, unbaptized, interested friends, volunteers, contractors, hired helpers, and any other persons, whomsoever they may be, that are involved or engaged in an activity of the ecclesia.
• This policy extends to all aspects of the ecclesia’s work including within the ecclesial environment and online interactions
• See Appendix A for a full set of terms used in this policy
• See Appendix D for a full list of Scriptural references on the issues addressed by this policy.
• If any person believes a child is at immediate risk of abuse, telephone 911 or local child protective services immediately.

2. PRINCIPLES

• The ecclesia has zero tolerance for child abuse. The safety and well-being of children at the ecclesia’s activities is of vital importance. All children have a right to feel safe and be safe, and every child has an equal right to protection from abuse
• Child Protection is a Shared Responsibility: Every adult in the community bears the responsibility of understanding and taking action to prevent and report child abuse.
• Victim ‘First’ Approach: Managing and handling an abuse scenario should always be in the lens of the victim first. This includes believing and taking any allegations seriously and putting the interest of the victim above all else. In any case where there is a question of deference, it should go to the victim first, including things like confidentiality, access to ecclesial functions, attempts to resolve issues between the parties (and related parties) and fellowship. The ecclesia will provide support and assistance to people affected by child abuse, alleged or proven. A victim first approach is detailed more thoroughly in Appendix C.
• Work With Local Authorities: In the spirit of rendering to Caesar, the panel/all involved should be thoroughly familiar with their legal responsibilities and work willingly/diligently with local authorities to ensure the safety and protection of the victim. Child abuse is not an area that should be investigated solely within the ecclesial community.
• Diligence over Expedience: First and foremost, report any suspected abuse to local authorities and get the victim to safety immediately. After this, recognize that the investigative process will be challenging, exhausting and long. Taking the time to follow these procedures though can ensure protection of the victim, the ecclesia and minimize bias as much as possible.
• Focus on Prevention and Early Intervention: There is no arguing that we all care about protecting children within our community. Rather than simply doing “as the Gentiles”, our goal as believers is to go above and beyond any ‘legal compliance’, focusing on prevention, awareness and training to help minimize the risk to minors
• Communication Principles: As mentioned above, documentation, and sharing of communication should be victim guided. Where appropriate, the victim’s supporter should choose. Abusers should not be protected within the community and cross ecclesial communication about abuser status should be disclosed. The ecclesia will be sensitive, compassionate, objective, confidential, fair, truthful and compliant in any matter related to child abuse, alleged or proven.

RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Arranging Board

• The Arranging Board has the primary responsibility for the care and safety of children at activities of the ecclesia (refer to Section 4.6 for more details). The Arranging Board must:
• Provide leadership in child safety);
• Communicate the requirements of this policy to people associated with the Ecclesia;
• Ensure people involved with the care and supervision of children are suitable and supported;
• Ensure complaints are managed appropriately;
• Arrange regular review of this policy; and,
• Ensure matters related to child safety are documented appropriately.

The Ecclesia may appoint a person to be the Ecclesial Representative for Child Safety to coordinate administrative requirements of this policy under their direction. If the ecclesia does not appoint a person to have this function, the Arranging Brethren also has the responsibilities in Section 5.2.

3.2 Investigative Panel

• The Investigative Panel is an equal number of brothers and sisters independent of the Arranging Board appointed by the ecclesia to take the steps needed as outlined in this policy document.
• The panel should be selected from the broader ecclesia based on their distance from the situation and their reputation for discernment. It may be worth pre-screening sisters and brothers willing to serve on such a panel. Once a complaint has been reported, the Arranging Board should reach out to potential panel members to determine their potential bias and willingness to participate.
• The panel should work closely with the Ecclesial Representative for Child Safety to ensure that all procedures are being followed.
• To reduce bias and promote victim safety, the panel should be composed of both brothers and sisters who do not have close ties with the victim or abuser. In the case of small ecclesias, it would be advised to rely on your chosen counselor’s advice on how to proceed. You may also refer to the Tidings website for additional information.
• The panel should review all training resources and this policy on handling the investigation prior to initiating one.
• The panel should also review the role that unconscious bias can play in abuse investigations, paying particular attention to never participate in victim blaming. The same way that our father judges “without respect of persons“, we as his children must endeavor to call out and remove bias wherever we see it. See additional resources in Section 5.6.
• The panel should never have discussions with the victim without the victim’s chosen supporter present (see section 5.6 for more details).
• The panel should work with the victim’s supporter to get feedback and ensure that the victim knows and feels they are being cared for and that the process is working for them.

3.3 Child Victim Supporter

• A Child’s Victim Supporter is a trusted adult in the life of the child whose role is to Support for their best interest during an investigation.
• The Supporter should be selected by the Investigative Panel, keeping in mind the following:
  • A Supporter could be a parent or relative, however, if there is any risk that the abuser is family (immediate or extended), it’s advisable to have an independent Supporter who will not be conflicted by familial attachments.
  • An independent Supporter is also advised if the parents are obviously neglectful or do not have the child’s best interest in mind (which sadly is common for children targeted by abusers).
  • In most situations, it is strongly advised that the supporter be a sister in the ecclesia that the child is familiar with and trusts. It is important to note that 96% of child sexual abusers are male and abuse can cause trust issues with adult men, even if they are known to the child.
• The Supporter should be familiar with this policy document and their role in ensuring a ‘victim first’ approach.
• They should be present at all conversations held with the child by the panel, representatives or the Arranging Board, prioritizing the safety and comfort of the child.
• They should hold independent conversations with the child and their family to get feedback and ensure that the child knows and feels they are being cared for and that the process is working for them.
• In cases where a child is very young, the Supporter should consult the child, but decisions that affect the child should be made by the Supporter.

3.4 Ecclesia’s Child Safety Representative

• The Ecclesia’s Child Safety Representative is a person appointed by the ecclesia to coordinate administrative requirements of this policy. This may or may not work well as an additional duty of the Sunday School Superintendent.
• Note: The ecclesia’s Child Safety Representative is an administrative function and does not carry sole responsibility for child safety. All Members and visitors of the ecclesia are variously responsible for child safety as defined in Sections 4 and 5 of the policy.
• The ecclesia’s Child Safety Representative must:
  • Be familiar with the requirements of the applicable child safety laws (refer to Appendix G);
  • Be familiar with the requirements and processes for any required Background Checks;
  • Facilitate Background Checks on behalf of the ecclesia;
  • Maintain records of Background Checks on behalf of the ecclesia.
  • Coordinate training (refer to Section 4.6); and
  • Advise the Arranging Board if/when they become aware of changes in law or associated processes which may require a revision to this policy.
  • Be an expert on the ecclesial Child Safety Policies and advise the investigative panels on how to proceed through the processes

3.5 Anyone Coordinating an Activity (Activity Coordinator)

• An Activity Coordinator is any person appointed (either formally or informally) by the ecclesia to coordinate an activity of the ecclesia (e.g. study days, CYC outings etc.).
• For the activity they have been requested to coordinate, an Activity Coordinator must:
  • Ensure persons working with children have Background Checks (or equivalent in the State or Province in which the ecclesia is located);
  • Develop and implement activity guidelines which include arrangements for child safety (refer to Section 4.6); and
  • Report to the appropriate authorities (refer to Section 4.6 and Appendix F) if they have a reasonable belief that a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being abused.
  • Activity Coordinators who are Youth Workers also have the responsibilities in Section 5.4.
• In developing activity guidelines (refer to Section 4.6), Activity Coordinators should consider and document what is, and is not, appropriate time with a child. For example:
  • Appropriate – a youth group host may have a private conversation with a child in a room where other people are present.
  • Inappropriate – a person is alone with a child in their room at night at a campsite with the door closed.

3.6 Youth Workers

• A Youth Worker is an adult person appointed by the ecclesia to work with children at an activity of the ecclesia.
• Note: A Youth Worker may be a member of the ecclesia, an employee, contractor or volunteer. Working with children is any role which involves contact with children, including care, supervision and teaching.
• Youth Workers must:
  • Comply with the standards of behavior for interactions with children defined in the ecclesia’s code of conduct; (see Appendix E)
  • Maintain a current Background Check;
  • Attend child safety training organized by the ecclesia;
  • Follow protocols and procedures for child safety which have been established for the activity;
  • Report to the appropriate authorities (refer to Section 4.6 and Appendix G) if they have a reasonable belief that a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being abused.
  • 4.3. Youth Workers who are Activity Coordinators also have the responsibilities in Section 5.3.

3.7 Ecclesial Members

• All Members of the Ecclesia, including those listed in Sections 5.1 to 5.4 above, must:
  • Comply with the standards of behavior for interactions with children defined in the ecclesia’s code of conduct; (see Appendix E)
  • Comply with the requirements of this policy;
  • Provide a safe environment for all children;
  • Not spend time alone with a child unless necessary and appropriate; and
  • Note: Wherever possible time spent alone with a child should be in a public place. (The ecclesia should make appropriate arrangements for parents and caregivers to be able to provide care to young children.)
• Report to the appropriate authorities (refer to Section 4.6 and Appendix G) if they have a reasonable belief that a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being abused.
• All adult Members of the ecclesia, including those listed in 5.1 to 5.4 above, must:
  • Always promote child safety;
  • Assess the risk of child abuse within their area of responsibility and eradicate/minimize any risk to the extent possible; and
  • understand their legal reporting obligations and facilitate the reporting of any concerns regarding child safety.

3.8 All Others

• All other adults not mentioned above but who have any association with the ecclesia (e.g., visitors, guests, workers of other organizations) must:
  • Comply with the standards of behavior for interactions with children defined in the ecclesia’s code of conduct; (see Appendix E)
  • Comply with the requirements of this policy; and
  • Report to the appropriate authorities (refer to Section 4.6 and Appendix G) if they have a reasonable belief that a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being abused.

4. RECOGNIZING AND PREVENTING ABUSE OR EXPLOITATION OF MINORS

4.1 Child Safety is Embedded in Institutional Leadership, Governance and Culture

• The Arranging Board, in partnership with the Child Safety Representative, must review and approve nominations for any person whose role or function at an activity sponsored by your ecclesia may involve working with children, including:
  • Secretary;
  • Sunday School Superintendent;
  • Youth Workers, including Sunday school teachers (including substitute teachers), supervisors, CYC counselors and youth leaders; and
  • Visiting speakers/study leaders (such as for camps, study weeks, special efforts or fraternal gatherings) and supervisors of outings. This may require coordination with other ecclesias;
• The Arranging Board must provide sufficient oversight of the ecclesia’s activities to ensure that child safety arrangements are effective.
• The Arranging Board should retain an ecclesial counselor/therapist (See Appendix L for more information) to help navigate difficult conversations, to provide mediation and for children/parents to connect with if they feel unsafe as well as provide resources to all involved to be supported.

4.2 Children Participate in Decisions Affecting Them and Are Taken Seriously

• The Arranging Board recognizes the importance of engaging with and empowering children. Children should be engaged in age-appropriate processes designed to ensure their safety (particularly in relation to Sections 6.6 and 6.8).
• The Arranging Board will endeavor to put in place age-appropriate strategies to proactively:
  • Engage with children;
  • Seek children’s views;
  • Consult with children about decisions that affect them;
  • Educate and inform children on their rights to be safe from abuse and what is and isn’t appropriate behavior towards them from both peers and adults; and
  • Consult with children about what makes them feel safe and how this can be recognized and implemented by the Arranging Board
• The Arranging Board will inform children of safe and respectful relationships and where they can go if they have any concerns or would like further information and support.
• Notes: The Arranging Board should discuss with Youth Workers and other people with experience in working with children how best to convey this information.
• Information should be provided in a way which is age appropriate.
• Children should be encouraged to discuss and ask questions to confirm their understanding and be made to feel confident that their concerns about safety or wellbeing will be taken seriously and responded to immediately.

4.3 Families and Communities are Informed and Involved

• The Arranging Board must inform anyone with a responsibility under this policy:
  • About the policy;
  • About policy requirements which specifically apply to that person’s role or function; and
  • Make the policy available to them.
• The Arranging Board must inform all members of the ecclesia and their families about the policy and make it available to them.
• The Arranging Board must inform a new Member of the ecclesia of this policy and its requirements.
• Any person may provide feedback about the policy for the Arranging Board to consider changes for further improving child safety.

4.4 Retain an Ecclesial Counselor/Therapist

• A counselor or therapist should be vetted and retained in advance of an issue to help navigate difficult conversations, act as mediator for children/parents, as well as for individuals of the ecclesia to reach out to. Abuse investigations are most traumatic for the victim, but this does not mean that the community and families of the victim and abuser are unaffected. It is prudent to have someone familiar with Christadelphians and the policies outlined in this document ready to go in advance.
• In Appendix L, we’ve included resources on finding a counselor, including what to look for and interview questions. There is also a section on finding local experts specializing in child protection, and details on the differences in their roles.
• You may also refer to the Tidings website that reiterates this information and where we will keep a list of available resources and sisters and brothers willing to provide advice on this topic.

4.5 Ensure People Working with Children are Suitable and Supported

• To work with children, an adult must have met the legal requirements to do so prior to commencing this work.
• A background check must be obtained (An online search for church background check services in your state will provide options for background checks). If there is no legal requirement to obtain a background check in the State or Province in which the ecclesia is located, a minimum of a police check must be obtained, or as required by insurance arrangements (see Appendix G). This practice won’t guarantee that abuse will never occur, but will help discourage predatory access to potential victims
• If the person already has a background check (or equivalent) document associated with another organization, it might be easier to share it with the ecclesia.
• A person who is exempt by law from a background check (or equivalent) because of their profession or occupation may still require a background check if their involvement with children at the ecclesia’s activities is unrelated to their profession or occupation.
• An adult who works with children must advise the Arranging Board:
  • If they have a complaint made against them (whether related to activities of the ecclesia or not); and/or
  • If their Background Check status changes
• An adult must not work with children:
  • If they have been a member of the ecclesia for less than three months unless otherwise approved by the Arranging Board;
  • If they are the subject of an unresolved complaint;
  • If the Arranging Board have directed their contact with children must be restricted at the ecclesia’s activities; or
  • If they have been convicted of sexual offending.
• Where persons other than members of the ecclesia are to be employed to work with children, recruitment processes must emphasize the importance of child safety. Appendix F contains an interview guide with suggested questions.
• The ecclesia must maintain a register of the status of background checks associated with the ecclesia.

4.6 Ecclesial Leaders, Youth Workers, Members, Parents and Children are Equipped with the Knowledge, Skills and Awareness to Keep Children Safe through Continual Education and Training

This section is somewhat in-depth, so it is broken out into the following three areas:

Learn the Facts: Understand child sexual abuse so we can end it.

Talk about It: Help the community, parents and children eradicate stigma and define boundaries.

Prevent, Recognize & Report: Learning to identify grooming and abuse.

Learn the Facts

If we don’t understand child sexual abuse, we can’t end it. It is highly likely that you know a child who has been or is being abused, the more you know, the more you can do to stop it.

• For the Arranging Board /ecclesial leaders:
  • The Arranging Board must arrange for any new addition to the board be trained in this policy:
    • Upon appointment; and
    • At least annually thereafter during the period of their tenure.
  • Said training must provide persons with a clear understanding of policy requirements, including:
    • How to administer and execute this policy;
    • Identifying child-friendly ways for children to communicate and raise their concerns;
    • That all complaints relating to child abuse must be taken seriously, regardless of the perceived severity of the behavior; and
    • How complaints must be reported and to whom, including understanding local mandatory reporting guidelines and compliance.
  • For Youth Workers:
    • The Arranging Board must arrange for any person whose role or function may involve working with children to be trained in this policy:
      • Upon appointment; and
      • At least annually thereafter during the period of their tenure.
    • Said training must provide persons with a clear understanding of policy requirements, including:
      • Expected standards of behavior for interactions with children;
      • Child-friendly ways for children to communicate and raise their concerns;
      • Recognizing physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse (refer to Appendix B);
      • Identifying inappropriate behavior which may be a precursor to child abuse, including grooming (See Appendix H);
      • That all complaints relating to child abuse must be taken seriously, regardless of the perceived severity of the behavior; and
      • How complaints must be reported and to whom, including understanding local mandatory reporting guidelines and compliance.
    • The Arranging Board must provide ecclesial members involved in the care and supervision of children with appropriate opportunities to develop practical skills in protecting children and responding to disclosures.
    • Note: for ecclesias appointing a Child Safety Representative, these tasks may be delegated to them to complete.
  • For Members:
    • The Arranging Board must arrange for all members to receive semi-annual/annual training that includes the following topics:
      • A high-level overview of this policy, including a summary of expected standards of behavior for interactions with children and responsibilities for the Child Safety Representative, etc.
      • Physical and online environment.
      • Child-friendly ways for children to communicate and raise their concerns;
      • Recognizing physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse (refer to Appendix B);
      • Identifying inappropriate behavior which may be a precursor to child abuse, including grooming (See Appendix B);
      • That all complaints relating to child abuse must be taken seriously, regardless of the perceived severity of the behavior; and
      • How complaints must be reported and to whom, including understanding local mandatory reporting guidelines and compliance.
      • Statistics about child abuse and information about (and how to identify) at risk populations.
      • Unconscious bias and victim blaming.
    • Suggested additional topics include:
      • Trauma responses: hurt people hurt people and themselves; how trauma affects individuals, their families, and their communities (physically, psychologically and spiritually); generational trauma; how to support a victim etc.
    • For Parents:
      • In addition to the preceding topics provided to all general members, the Arranging Board must arrange for parents to have the following resources available, whether that be through voluntary training, online courses, videos, or books. The following non-exhaustive list of topics should be included:
        • Helping children create and enforce healthy boundaries
        • Helping parents talk with their children about their bodies as they grow
        • Helping parents navigate difficult conversations with their kids about safety
        • Helping parents safeguard their children in online environments
        • Information about bullying (both digital and in-person)
        • Specific guidance for children with disabilities where appropriate
      • For Children:
        • The Arranging Board must arrange for all minors to receive age appropriate semi-annual/annual training during Sunday School, CYC, bible schools and any other youth serving groups or events:
          • An age-appropriate overview of our policy, including a summary of expected standards of behavior for adult interactions with children, highlighting the child-friendly ways for children to communicate and raise their concerns;
          • Features of the physical and online environment setup for the children’s safety
          • Discussing healthy boundaries, inappropriate behavior from adults and empowering children to set their own physical boundaries and encourage them to speak to an adult they trust.
          • Provide assurances that all complaints relating to child abuse must be taken seriously, regardless of the perceived severity of the behavior; and
          • Who the child can speak to if they have a concern, or suggestion, if they do not already have someone they trust?
          • Engage in open discourse with the children to ask about their thoughts on this topic, how they feel, and what might help improve the processes and policies.
        • The Tidings website provides additional abuse prevention training resources vetted and suggested for the above areas. We will continue to build upon these resources over time, so please continue to refer to our website and join our mailing list for updates.

Talk About It

Talking openly breaks down barriers and reduces stigma. By talking openly about our bodies, sex, & boundaries we can encourage children to share.

• Talking about abuse is Important. Open conversation and teaching from Scripture about appropriate conduct, as well as warnings about prohibited behavior are necessary subjects to be covered in Bible classes, CYC classes, and Sunday School classes.
• On top of learning the truth about child sexual abuse, having frank, yet age-appropriate discussions and teachings can reinforce expectations of holiness, and make the ecclesia’s policies on abuse not only clear to children, but to potential predators as well. Such discussions also encourage victims to come forward with concerns about emerging, current or past abuse.
• God is explicit in His Word about both sex and sin. While such topics may be uncomfortable to talk about, we should not shy away from such frankness ourselves. This can be as simple as calling sexual abuse by it’s name and not minimizing or euphemizing the terminology, or empowering children to say no to hugs.
• Help parents talk about abuse: Given the family environment is where many expectations of behavior are set, parents can have a powerful role in preparing their children to confront abuse or exploitation at the first signs. In the “Resources” section of this document, we have provided a list of recommended books, articles and videos that we’d suggest is kept on hand in the ecclesial library, as well as specific training resources and guides for parents. These include topics such as how to talk to their children about their bodies & boundaries, how to safeguard against online predators and how to recognize signs of abuse.
• Research shows that one of the most effective ways to protect children from predators is to empower them to understand consent and set and enforce their own personal boundaries (and to tell someone if an adult violates these). This topic should be covered in CYC and Sunday School annually and you can refer to the “Resources” section of this document or on the Tidings website for books and training to facilitate these sessions.

Prevent, Recognize & Report:

• Being knowledgeable about how to recognize early warning signs and situations, including physical and online environments, that increase the risk of sexual abuse will help you keep your child and other children safe. All adult members are responsible for understanding and enforcing preventative measures and appropriate, respectful behavior for the people who care for and interact with children so they can recognize and respond when someone is not following expectations.
• Considering this, keep books, articles and videos for members on hand in the ecclesial library about sexual abuse prevention, recognizing the signs & symptoms of grooming, identifying at risk children etc.,
• Any ecclesial member or visitor is responsible for notifying the Arranging Board if they become aware that a person attending an activity of the ecclesia is the subject of a complaint or has been convicted of a sexual offence. If any adult member becomes privy to a potential abuse scenario, they should immediately contact their local authorities or child protection services.
• Creating a culture that addresses these issues head on and does not sweep things under the rug creates an environment that is difficult for predators to work in.

4.7 Minimize Opportunity: Identify and Address Physical and Online Safety Concerns

• More than 80% of sexual abuse cases occur in isolated, one-on-one situations. Minimizing those opportunities can greatly reduce the risk of abuse. Below is a basic list of ways to prevent children from being isolated. These ideas are expanded upon further in the suggested training and resources available on the Tidings website.
  • Make sure interactions with children can be easily observed and interrupted. For example, be sure there is glass on Sunday school doors (or simply remove the doors).
  • No adult (or teen) should have one on one, private experiences with teens/children, whether they be outings or in classes. Two adults should be always present.
  • Similarly, older children or teens who have responsibility for younger children should be supervised.
  • For more personal conversations (such as a baptismal interview), it is strongly suggested that a sister be one of the two or more adults present if the interviewee is female.
  • Grounds and facilities used by the ecclesia should be well lit and easily supervised. Think about isolating scenarios when scheduling activities and try to avoid them.
  • Be mindful of ecclesial hosted gatherings/overnight CYC events and how teens/children are housed and transported. Children should not be left alone with adults in the car or in houses. This scenario has been a risk factor in our community and should not be taken lightly.
  • Physical contact between adults and minors should be limited to appropriate touching such as hugs and handshakes and should only occur in public spaces. Children should be asked for their permission to hug as well!
  • Children must not have uncontrolled access to the online environment through a system provided by the ecclesia, whether in the meeting hall or for an activity.
  • Understand that abusers often become friendly with potential victims and their families, enjoying family activities, earning trust, and gaining time alone with children.
  • The Child Safety Representative and/or Arranging Board Member should regularly evaluate and approve activity guidelines and physical environments to be consistent with the ecclesia’s overarching Risk Management Strategy. Ideally before an activity starts.

• Members coordinating an activity (Activity Coordinators) should consider risks to children and include in the activity guidelines protocols and procedures for child safety:
  • Risk assessments should focus on preventing, identifying and mitigating risks to children.
  • Hazards in both physical and online (virtual) environments should be addressed (as relevant to the activity).
  • Regular risk assessments relating to the safety and wellbeing of children should also be conducted.
• When developing activity guidelines, Activity Coordinators may consider:
  • Engaging with children and their families about child safety arrangements to improve their effectiveness.
  • Encouraging friendships and support from peers to help children feel safe and be less isolated.
  • If relevant to the activity, including controls or requirements relating to access/use of the online environment (Internet, social media) by children.
  • A member of the ecclesia must inform the Arranging Board if they become aware that a person attending an activity of the ecclesia is the subject of a complaint or has been convicted of sexual offending.

4.8 Reinforce Healthy Boundaries

• Helping create healthy boundaries is a community wide responsibility. Ecclesial members of all ages should be aware of how they can create a culture that promotes child safety. This should be an important feature of the semi/annual training and resources provided to the various (see section 4.6) members and positions in the ecclesia.
• From a practical standpoint, these boundaries can also be reinforced in the following ways:
  • Kids should be allowed to decide for themselves if, and when, they want to show affection. Ask for a hug, a kiss on the cheek, or even a handshake. Failing to provide them an opportunity to choose what happens to their bodies teaches them that they are not in charge. If a child chooses not to engage, do not disparage them. A great way is to offer engagement at all levels: offer the child a hug, handshake or high-five. Most of the time, they will be happy to at least choose a high five!
  • Regularly provide children a voice: ignored children do not speak up about abuse. their feedback and concerns. This does not mean they should be able to interrupt ad infinitum, so provide opportunities for them to speak. For example, when interrupting adults (or other children) tell them you’d like to hear what they have to say but ask them to please wait until your conversation is over. Then be sure to follow up – forgetting to do so can be worse. Or provide an opportunity for feedback in Sunday School etc.
  • Really listen when children tell you what is, and isn’t, okay with them, and take their requests to heart whenever possible. Let children set their own limits and boundaries, ask if they would like help (e.g., by providing personal care beyond what the child needs, or acknowledging a child’s need for and right to privacy). If a child says she hates being tickled, or picked up, don’t say, ‘Oh come on, you don’t really hate it.’ Instead say, ‘I hear you and I won’t do it again.
  • Try to focus compliments (towards little girls especially) around behavior and character rather than on looks. Girls learn young that their value in society is based on their physical features and such compliments can reinforce the idea that they are not in control of what happens to their bodies.
  • Make a list of ‘Get a Grownup’ scenarios and post them on Sunday/CYC/ School Rooms, for example:
    • Hitting, or pushing, or even a kid who’s just playing too rough
    • A child who won’t take no for an answer
    • A situation where he feels unsafe or uncomfortable. For example, if his friends want to climb a fence into someone else’s yard or are playing too close to the pool
  • Help kids get comfortable advocating for their boundaries early will help them do so in the future when the stakes can be much higher. In Sunday School/CYC/other interactions, go over some simple phrases children can use to advocate for themselves: “Please stop.” “I don’t like that.” “It’s my turn now.”
  • Demonstrate healthy adult boundaries – the ecclesia is not a place for violent voices, or harsh and disrespectful words. Demonstrating empathy and care in all interactions is a great way to show kids how it’s done as they grow.

4.9 Child Safety Standards are Continuously Reviewed and Improved

• The Arranging Board (may delegate/work with the Child Safety Representative) must review this policy to ensure it remains compliant with the law and relevant to the developing needs of the ecclesia and its children:
  • At least every two years (or earlier if required due to changes in legislation); and
  • Note: State or Province legislation may require more frequent reviews.
  • After every complaint of child abuse.
  • After every complaint of child abuse or breach of this policy, the Arranging Board must act to prevent recurrence. Actions may include:
    • Seeking advice from the appropriate authorities or individuals with relevant professional expertise on child abuse and child safety;
    • Reviewing this policy;
    • Reviewing risk assessments and activity guidelines; Providing closer supervision of persons or activities;
    • Further education and training;
    • Placing restrictions on a person’s contact with children at activities of the ecclesia;
    • Advising the appropriate authorities regarding a person’s suitability to work with children; and/or (h) disciplinary procedures.

5. HANDLING CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN THE ECCLESIA

5.1 Ensure the Child’s Physical Safety is Immediately Secure

• By the nature of their immaturity and lack of power, children and adolescents are vulnerable to being tricked, coerced, threatened, or misled into inappropriate sexual behaviors. It is always damaging to children when it occurs: that damage can be physical and emotional. Because of this, children must be immediately protected from further abuse and supported by those who are trusted by that child, who love the child and can provide safety.
• Few among us are experts in diagnosing or fully understanding child sexual abuse. The job of ecclesial elders isn’t to become experts, but to be alert to the possibility of the sexual abuse of children in our Sunday schools, CYCs, families and ecclesias, and to be ready to act when we develop a reasonable suspicion.
• If an adult is made aware or becomes suspicious of a child’s imminent safety (such as the abuse of an immediate family member), they are personally responsible for that child and MUST contact local authorities, Child Protection Services IMMEDIATELY (do not even wait until the morning!) or call 911 in an emergency. Proceeding through the remainder of this policy is contingent on any steps the authorities require to secure that child’s safety (such as taking them to a local precinct or shelter). Once you are assured that the child’s immediate safety is secure, you should proceed through the remainder of this guide (see Tidings Website for help finding your local guiding authority).

5.2 Create a Safe Reporting Environment

• As referred to in the “Principles” section (above), the Arranging Board and any ecclesial member should treat every allegation as if it is true. If a child or teen is alleging sexual abuse, believe them! Cases of fabrication do happen but are so rare as to be practically immaterial. The first approach should be to believe the child, treat them sensitively and respectfully, and assume that the allegation, however hard to believe, is true. Fervently avoid statements that question motives, accuse or blame. Victim blaming is particularly common towards older teenage girls (see Appendix C – Victim Protection, for more details). Assume that if the victim is a minor, the adult perpetrator bears all responsibility for what happened.
• As mentioned in section 4.6, children should already be informed about people they can report abuse to in the ecclesia. If this is not yet in place, once they are made aware, the AB should ensure that the child has a primary contact that they know and trust to work with (whether this be the person they first spoke with or the person who observed the behavior etc.). Concurrently, as mentioned in sections 3.2 and 3.3, an Investigative Panel and Child Supporter should be found. These steps are detailed further in section 5.3 after the concern has been reported to the AB.
• The Arranging Board must provide any additional support needed to any person or child who makes a complaint or disclosure. Without compromising the confidentiality and conflict of interest requirements of this section, support should include:
  • Assistance with the formal reporting process.
  • Help procuring appropriate legal protections, such as a restraining order.
  • Providing a safe place to live or spend time.
  • Professional counseling and local support groups.
  • The child’s Supporter may be best suited to determine what support is needed for very young children.
  • Ensure the safety and comfort of the victim in the ecclesia. This may involve moving the victim to a safer location or preventing the abuser from attending ecclesial functions.
• Confidentiality: Because of the sensitive nature of child sexual abuse cases, everyone should understand that all information should remain private:
  • Withhold the names of potential victims, the accused perpetrator, and the people who made the report to the authorities (particularly from the accused)
  • Decide whether to inform the ecclesia that an allegation has been made.
  • Ensure that any confidentiality policy is consistent with local legal requirements.
  • It must be reinforced to the ecclesia and the boards that strict and complete confidentiality is essential for any abuse victim
    • To be comfortable to report it
    • To be comfortable that no one else knows
  • We need to develop a system of reporting for the victim to navigate along with the person they have confided in, so the victim feels relief, support and finally cared for.

5.3 Process to Respond to Complaints of Child Abuse

• Any person who has a reasonable belief* that a child has been, is being, or is at risk of being abused, or to whom a child has made a disclosure, must:
  • Report the matter to the appropriate authority as required by the State or Province within which they reside (see Appendix G) and request direction from them concerning the child’s immediate welfare; and
  • If the alleged abuse relates to an ecclesial activity, also advise a member of the Arranging Board who has no conflict of interest; and
  • Take immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
  • Fully cooperate with an appropriate authority exercising a lawful power. Read through the Appendix on Legal Responsibilities to ensure mandatory reporting guidelines are met.
    • *Notes: Reasonable belief includes recognizing indicators of child sexual abuse (see Appendix B).
    • Depending on local laws, failing to report your concerns to the authorities is criminal conduct. See Appendix G for information on Mandatory Reporting Guidelines.
    • If no one of the Arranging Brethren is found to be without conflict of interest, the person should seek guidance from the authorities, such as a professional investigator.
  • Once the Arranging Board is advised that a complaint or disclosure has been reported (ideally to the appropriate authorities), they must:
    • Ensure that members of the Arranging Board acting are not involved in any matter related to a complaint or disclosure where there may be a real or perceived conflict of interest.
    • Document the advice, including:
      • The date and time the advice was made;
      • To whom it was made;
      • The advice (as near as possible the actual words); and
      • Who the child alleges was/is the perpetrator (who may or may not be a Member of the ecclesia).
        • Notes: The aim of advising the Arranging Board is to enable them to act effectively in implementing risk mitigation measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the child or to appropriately restrict a person against whom an allegation has been made, for example removal from rostered duties or attendance at youth activities.
        • Actions taken by the Arranging Board and subsequent communication must not compromise legal confidentiality requirements.
      • Provide the documented advice to the appropriate authorities.
      • Read through Appendix G on Legal Obligations to ensure mandatory reporting guidelines are met.
      • Ensure that the parent(s) of the child have been notified if they are not involved in the abuse allegations.
      • Concurrently, an Investigative Panel and Child Supporter should be contacted. It will take some time for the Panel to be created, so meanwhile, the AB should find a best suitable Supporter as defined in Section 3.3. This Supporter should proceed, but they should be reviewed/confirmed by the Investigative Panel to ensure there is no bias involved in the selection.
      • If the scenario requires investigation by the ecclesia, proceed to the ‘Investigative Process’ (Section 5.6) and hand off the remaining actions to the Investigative Panel and/or an external investigator (see next bullet). DO NOT INTERVIEW THE CHILD.
      • It is generally recommended, and certainly where required by law, that the Arranging Board engage an external investigator to ensure the independence and integrity of the investigation.
        • Notes: The appropriate authorities have professional personnel who are specialized in investigating child abuse and minimizing the possible detrimental effect detailed questioning may have on alleged victims. For the same reason, qualified external investigators are recommended where internal investigations are required.
      • The Arranging Board should notify their retained counselor about the situation and inquire about best steps to help support the victim, supporter, reporter and the community (keeping names/identifying details confidential without the express consent of the reporter/victim).
      • The Arranging Board should advise the ecclesia’s insurer of any complaint or disclosure reported to the appropriate authorities (See Appendix G)
      • Work with the ecclesia’s Child Safety Representative, to conduct a risk assessment to identify, assess and minimize any risks to the child and secondary victims (See Section 4.7).
        • Note: This risk assessment should be conducted in a manner that does not interfere with any investigation by external authorities. It is an assessment of risk not an investigation of the veracity of a complaint or disclosure.

5.4 Internal Records

• No organization should investigate allegations or suspicions of child sexual abuse in lieu of reporting them to the authorities. The ecclesia should develop a system to track allegations and suspicions of child sexual abuse cases.
• Any instance of reported child sexual abuse should be documented, preferably on a standard form. These forms should be completed by anyone who first learns of the abuse through hearing an allegation or seeing.
• Record the resolutions of child sexual abuse cases.
• Maintain all records in a secure location, with access allowed only to those who are authorized to review these records.

5.5 Immoral but not “Illegal” Complaints:

• In cases where your local jurisdiction does not specify criminal misconduct, sexual abuse (of any nature) with a minor (under the legal age of 18) should be covered by the same policies laid out here. Perpetrators may argue that such behavior is not illegal and should not be handled in the same way, however, any morally inappropriate relationship with a minor OR between an adult in a position of power or with age advantage to be handled in the same manner. While these scenarios might not require ‘reporting to authorities’, our community still bears a responsibility to protect and care for the ‘widows and orphans’ (i.e., the vulnerable) and all other procedures should be followed accordingly.
• In cases where no allegations are made but predatory “red flag” behavior (see Appendix B) is observed in an adult with a position of power over or with a significant age difference between a teenager between the “age of consent.” Behavior should be formally recorded, potential victims and their families should be warned about grooming, the adult should be informed that their behavior is inappropriate and further steps and potential repercussions should be discussed.

5.6 Investigative Process

• Guidelines:
  • The primary objective of the investigation is the protection of the child.
  • If the ecclesia deems it necessary, they should conduct an objective and unbiased investigation via a balanced Investigative Panel (see section 3.2) to help ensure this happens.
  • The ecclesia shall protect the legal rights of all involved parties—child, accused, witnesses, etc.
  • The ecclesia shall maintain a liaison with the child’s supporter, any retained counselor, community and support organizations which may be able to provide aid to the child and families. A list of such groups shall be maintained.
• Who is Responsible for Investigating?
  • Each member of the ecclesia, but particularly Youth Workers/those that have frequent and regular interactions with children have a special responsibility to watch out for signs of abuse in children. A deeply held compassion and desire to protect children within our community should spur us all to understand how to identify signs of abuse and determine if there is reasonable belief to report and continue further investigation. In this sense, we’re all responsible for “investigating” abuse.
  • Beyond this, the best resource is to rely on the experience of trained professionals to guide you through the investigative process. Upon reaching out to the local authorities, the reporter/Arranging Board will be put in contact with a social worker, a trained detective within the police force or a trauma specialist etc. Inquire about the process and outcome and what can be done to assist. If the official investigation determines the report to be credible, then proceed with certainty that this is most likely to be true and a more effective investigation than anything that can be done within the ecclesia. Should you need more advice, reach out to your retained counselor (see Appendix L) or refer to the additional resources listed on the Tidings website.
  • In some cases, the authorities’ process may take an inordinate amount of time or may not be responded to as a credible risk. Bias exists and failures exist in the legal systems, so if the Investigative Panel believes further investigation is needed, the next steps can be taken.
• Talking to the Victim
  • Police or other authorities may wish to speak to a child before other interviews occur. In determining reasonable belief – and except for asking a child open questions about vague allegations – the child should not be questioned further about the disclosure until relevant external authorities such as the police have been provided with the opportunity to speak with the child and have confirmed that further inquiries can be made (as in some locales they are not permitted).
  • If the allegation doesn’t come from the child directly, it may be prudent to ask the child to clarify the potential abuse. The following should be kept in mind:
    • A child should never be approached without their supporter (someone the child trusts and wants them to be there). Coercing a child to disclose information to an authority they do not trust can be further damaging as their abuser may have used a similar position against them.
    • A sister from the Investigative Panel should be present (see section 3.2 as to why), and optionally, other panel members, an Arranging Board member/elder and/or parent.
    • Only non-leading questions should be used so as not to taint any evidence the Police may need.
    • Take notes immediately after this discussion to preserve the exact language of the child, which can be helpful to the authorities.
    • Discussions should be scheduled in advance, with enough forewarning. Victims (as well as reporters) should not be questioned in at ecclesial activities. Be thoughtful and respect the peace that those spaces can bring. Your schedule and desire to resolve the issue quickly is secondary to a victim’s need for comfort and routine.
  • Following interviews with the child, the Investigative Panel should convene and discuss appropriate next steps to protect the community and communicate these to the abuser. Additional steps may be required to mediate between the abuser and the ecclesia, as well as their families.

5.7 Response to a Perpetrator

• When a report of abuse reaches the Arranging Board, they will do the following:
• Ensure the abuser cannot hurt anyone else:
  • Immediately refuse any requests for the abuser to transfer ecclesias
  • If the abuser is associating significantly with another ecclesia, inform that ecclesia of the situation
  • Remove the abuser from any ecclesial duties and association until any investigation is complete.
• In concert with law enforcement and other professional help, document and establish reasonable belief in the report (see Appendix K regarding Non-Credible Reports)
  • Attempt to work with the abuser to help them come to repentance,
  • Inform the brotherhood at large of the threat.
• If the abuser cannot be worked with, remove the abuser from association with the ecclesia, and inform the brotherhood at large to beware of them.
• A person who attends an activity of the ecclesia and who is the subject of a complaint, whether related to activities of the ecclesia or not, must:
  • Immediately inform the Arranging Board;
  • Cooperate with the appropriate authorities in their investigation of the complaint;
  • Comply with the Arranging Board directions regarding that person’s participation in the ecclesia’s activities and interactions with children; and
  • Keep the Arranging Board informed of the status of the investigation into the complaint and its resolution.
• Review and complete the remaining steps in Appendix I (Consequences to Fellowship and Community Communication).

5.8 Ensure Child and their Family’s Ongoing Safety and Support

• Expect that after an allegation has been made, the child victim will need special support. Maintaining familiar and supportive routines, like attendance at Sunday school, CYC, and other usual events will provide the child a sense of normality, and the usual support mechanisms in his/her life.
• Child victims will need a lot of support over a long period of time as they heal. Securing professional child sexual abuse treatment will be very helpful for the child victim and their family. Sometimes families need financial support to afford this unexpected treatment cost. Often the perpetrator will be loudly challenging the victim’s statement, denying any wrongdoing, or minimizing the impact of their own conduct. Ecclesial elders must be prepared to protect the child victim, and hold the alleged offender responsible to aid and support a thorough review of all sides of the situation by law enforcement personnel.
• While reconciliation between brethren is a Scriptural expectation, in cases of abuse this can take years and decades, not days and weeks. Ecclesial elders are encouraged to be prepared for a long-term support situation for the victim and their family. We must prioritize the safety of children, and truly repentant offenders should have no problem with us doing this. This will need understanding, and an informed ecclesia committed to doing their part for a considerable time to come.

5.9 Outcomes from Legal Investigations

• The Arranging Board, and all ecclesial members, must comply with the investigations of all relevant legal authorities into child safety situations, unless it requires them to clearly disobey a commandment of Christ. This also applies to all relevant laws, restraining orders, divorce arrangements, etc.
• The ecclesia has duties towards both the victim and the perpetrator that go above and beyond what the criminal justice process provides. Regardless of the status of any criminal investigation, the ecclesia must support the victim and encourage the perpetrator to come to repentance.  Whether or not the criminal justice system has chosen to prosecute does not change the ecclesia’s duty of care towards its members.
• The Arranging Board must take seriously the conclusions of any legal or criminal process concerning a case of child safety in the ecclesia. This also includes the recommendations of professionals.
• The legal system is not infallible, and while its conclusions must be taken seriously, they are not the final word on how the ecclesia cares for its members. The ecclesia is ultimately answerable to God in the way it conducts itself, and the conclusion of a legal process (e.g. acquittal based on the expiry of the statute of limitations) in no way justifies the ecclesia to act inconsistently with Christ’s command to “love one another as I have loved you“.

5.10 Healing and Ongoing Advocacy for the Victim

• Child Protective Services may not take allegations as seriously as you like. This does not absolve you from responsibility for trying to pursue justice and protecting the victim.
• Supporting a victim is a long-term commitment, one that we should lovingly and willingly take on. Victims may require ongoing financial or legal support, therapy and counseling.
• The resolution will be long-term, and the Ecclesia should be prepared to continue its support during the life of the individual. As the victim develops through different phases of their life different issues may arise and may require further assistance.
• Child sexual abuse can have lasting impacts on the victim and may result in inappropriate sexual behavior which should be viewed in context of the trauma.
• Other siblings and the parents of the victim may require their own support and counseling to understand the trauma in their own context.
• Expect other Ecclesial members to have their own unique reactions based on their own personal backgrounds. They and the greater community may need professional support and might benefit from support groups etc.
• Confidentiality should be stressed at the outset. Be sure to reassess this as the situation evolves to be sure that everyone continues to treat the situation with confidentiality.