Protection Irish Open Episcopal Church

Child/Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy

The safety and comfort of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance to us. Accordingly, the Church operates a child protection policy

GENERAL GUIDELINES

We will treat all people with respect
Where possible we will plan activities so that there is more than one adult present
We will minimise situations where one adult is working alone with a child
We will not permit any form of bullying, physical or verbal
We will avoid inappropriate physical or verbal contact with others
We will endeavour to encourage an atmosphere where members feel free to talk about attitudes or behaviour

PROCEDURE FOLLOWING ALLEGATION OR SUSPICION OF CHILD ABUSE

ALL allegations or suspicions MUST be reported immediately and directly to the Social Work Department or Police Child Protection Unit no matter how insignificant they may seem by the person the child has confided in. That person must also notify other officials within the Church that the situation has been reported
NO investigation or questioning should be undertaken

All staff working with children anywhere within the diocese MUST:

Have an appropriate criminal records disclosure check undertaken. This is usually an Enhanced Disclosure

Be checked to ensure that they are not on the register of persons prohibited from working with children

Undertake child protection training

More information can be obtained from and any concerns reported to the Provincial Child Protection Officer