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