Many of our faith communities are responding to the need for continued physical distancing by converting their summer programs for children and youth (Vacation Bible Study, Youth Events, etc.) into an online format. While many of these will be one-way video presentations, others will involve online interaction among children and adults. Please remember that many of our Safeguarding policies governing face-to-face interactions will still be relevant in this online context. These include but are not limited to:
2-Deep Ministry—The presence of at least 2 unrelated adults, who have undergone Safeguarding training, is required during all Program activities.
Screening—No person will be allowed to volunteer to regularly work with children or youth until the person has been known to the clergy and congregation for at least 6 months.
Appropriateness of Content—Reference to individuals’ personal sexual conduct or drug use, and the use of sexually explicit materials is prohibited.
Sobriety—using, possessing, distributing, or otherwise being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while participating in or assisting with programs or activities specifically for children or youth is prohibited.
Protecting Dignity—using harsh or degrading language or participating in or allowing others to conduct any hazing activities is prohibited.
Appropriate Boundaries—Adults are required to maintain appropriate boundaries among participants with regard to signs of affection and gift giving.
Those who have undergone requires Safeguarding training should already be aware of such policies.
Other challenges also arise in the online context. If your ministry is planning an online gathering of children or youth, please review the Social Media Safety module on the Safeguarding Online website. The site requires login, and you should have received account information shortly after you completed the required face-to-face Safeguarding training. If you have not completed the face-to-face training, please contact Missioner Terri Bays to participate in such training over Zoom.
We give thanks to God for your participation in tending to the welfare of the children and youth God has entrusted to our care!