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Next month's Presbyterian General Assembly is to be asked to approve guidelines for child protection to be followed by all congregations and leaders who work with children and young people.
Included in the guidelines is procedure for the vetting of potential leaders,the necessary provision of training for ministers and leaders and a clear procedure to be followed should abuse be suspected. Every congregation is to appoint a designated person who will be trained to supervise the implementation of the guidelines.
"Churches and youth organisations come into contact with more children than any other organisation except schools," says Pamela Lockie, Advisor in Social Services to the Presbyterian Church. "Our Church is not immune from the problems of trusted adults misusing their position. This requires a response which is both preventative towards the children and caring for those who have been abused. By adopting these guidelines each congregation will be raising standards of care and protection while leaders, teachers and helpers will be more assured of their own position in the event of accusations, whether real or false."
Churches are exempt from the provisions of the Children (NI) Order 1995 but the Presbyterian Church considers it a moral obligation to implement these procedures which are based on the new legislation and Childcare Northern Ireland's 'Our Duty to Care' document. Treating children and young people with dignity and respect and upholding their best interests is also in the best interests of the club or organisation. In addition to child abuse other area covered include procedures for general safety, transport of children and arrangements for residential activities.
"As well as offering congregations good practice procedures for those working with children and young people, the guidelines also affirm and encourage those adults and older young people who give their time and skills in this area of Christian service," added Pamela Lockie.
The General Assembly will debate the guidelines at its meeting in Belfast from June 3rd to June 7th.
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