Why a Child & Teen Protection Policy
Is Important & Necessary

 

 

Having a child protection policy that mandates everyone to participate in the appropriate background checks and training will:

1. Ward off potential predators who might otherwise keep their identity and criminal history hidden.
2. Reveal background reports/criminal history of applicants to determine suitability for staff and volunteer positions, for example:
   • anyone with a history of sexual abuse or violence should not be working with children
   • anyone with a recent history of credit problems, drunk driving, theft, or other recent criminal activity should not be put in a position of authority, or have access to finances or vehicles
3. Provide information for appropriate behaviors/interaction with children and teenagers and how to identify possible child abuse.
4. Provide guidance for interviewing potential employees and volunteers.
   • Conducting personal interviews is the most effective screening tool (according to research conducted by the American Bar Association).

Experience has shown that (next to personal interviews) increasing staff awareness, staff and supervisory training, comprehensive supervision, background checks are among the more effective tools for minimizing the risks of sexual abuse and molestation of minors; all are required in order to fully protect your ministry.