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online child abuse
prevention policy
training

thank you for keeping our church a safe place for everyone

please take the time to review and watch the portions of our policy below

understanding the need
for a policy

what are the big takeaways?

  •  Child abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. 

  • Physical abuse: deliberate force that could injure a child. 

  • Neglect: failing to provide food, safety, or medical care.

  • Emotional abuse: rejection, humiliation, or exposure to violence. 

  • Sexual abuse: involving a child in sexual activity, with or without contact. 

  • Recognize possible signs like unexplained injuries, withdrawal, or fearfulness. 

  • If you see something, say something—report it immediately. 

recruitment & screening

team members

what are the big takeaways?

  • All volunteers must complete an application, interview, provide two references, and submit a Vulnerable Sector or Enhanced Police Check. 

  • Police checks are renewed every five years and reimbursed by SPC. 

  • Volunteers complete training, read this policy, and sign the acknowledgment and lifestyle agreement. 

  • Each approved volunteer receives an ID tag to wear when serving.

ministry rules to live by

what are the big takeaways?

  • The Two-Person Rule: no child or youth is ever alone with one adult. 

  • Ministry should happen in open, visible spaces with clear sight lines. 

  • Volunteers must sign in, wear name tags, and follow accountability procedures. 

  • Transparency and teamwork are key to maintaining trust.

stouffville kids procedures

what are the big takeaways?

  • All children must be checked in and wear a registration tag listing their name, allergies, and medical notes. 

  • Children are only released to parents with a matching tag. 

  • There must always be two leaders in a room—one must be 17 or older. 

  • Volunteers never enter a closed stall with a child. 

  • Discipline focuses on redirection and positive correction. 

  • Appropriate touch includes high fives, side hugs, or pats on the shoulder; never in private or inappropriate areas.

stouffville youth procedures

what are the big takeaways?

  • Youth leaders are role models committed to spiritual maturity and integrity. 

  • Physical touch must always be appropriate, brief, and in public. 

  • No dating relationships between volunteers and students. 

  • One-on-one meetings must be of the same gender, in public, and approved by ministry leads. 

  • All online communication must be visible, copied to pastors or parents, and occur between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m.

offsite & overnights events

what are the big takeaways?

  • All events must be pre-approved by leadership and require signed consent and medical release forms. 

  • At least two volunteers must be present at every event; overnight events need both male and female leaders. 

  • Students may never enter rooms or tents of the opposite gender. 

  • Drivers must be approved, insured, and obey all road laws; no one-on-one transport with the opposite gender. 

first aid, fire drills & lockdowns

what are the big takeaways?

  • Sick children should stay home; volunteers cannot give medication except life-saving ones like EpiPens. 

  • Handle blood or injuries with gloves and first aid supplies; notify parents and pastors. 

  • In fire emergencies, lead children safely outside, do headcounts, and wait for instructions. 

  • For lockdowns, secure rooms, stay quiet, and await all-clear from the safety team.

incident reporting

what are the big takeaways?

  • Volunteers are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect immediately. 

  • Document what you observe and report to your supervising pastor within one hour. 

  • Contact Children’s Aid Society or Police if needed—don’t investigate yourself. 

  • Listen calmly to disclosures, assure the child they did the right thing, and maintain confidentiality. 

  • You are protected by law when reporting in good faith.

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