Being an abuse prevention hero doesn’t usually look like a hero in the movies. You’re not dodging bullets or explosions. It can be worse. You can end up dealing with church policy and board meetings.
But don’t check out! If you want to protect family, friends, and neighbors, THIS MATTERS!!!
No one thinks abuse will happen in their church community. We want to trust everyone, but abusers know that and take advantage of it. That’s why it’s important to evaluate what your church is doing to prevent abuse from happening.
You can use the following checklist to see what your church is doing and where it might need improvement. Leadership at any church, big or small, should be able to provide you with the answers to these questions. If it’s difficult to get answers, that may be cause for concern.
- Does the church require background checks for all leaders and volunteers working with children and teens?
- What training (if any) do leaders and volunteers go through to prevent, identify, and report abuse?
- Does the church require at least two leaders and/or volunteers to be present when working with children or teens (especially when changing diapers or other especially vulnerable times)?
- Does the church require leaders and volunteers to not enter the bathroom with children or teens they are supervising or, if it is necessary, to enter in pairs?
- Are there interior windows into classrooms, offices, and activity spaces?
- Is there a system in place for accountability where abuse could be reported? (Does it include mandatory reporters?)
- (a question for yourself) Do you feel you can trust the system of accountability to hold accountable those in positions of power?
If you think there is room for improvement, consider bringing your concerns to the leadership at your church and advocating for change. This might be as simple as a discussion with a leader friend, or it might involve meetings and organizing.
There are also organizations that specialize in helping churches improve their abuse prevention policies such as Into Account.
Good policies aren’t everything, but they are a good start. Be sure you’re also aware of what surrounds you at church and what to watch for. Then equip yourself and your family to resist those who would take advantage.
Being an abuse prevention hero at your church might feel boring at times, but it’s worth it! It’s SO worth it!!!