Steps to take before — and, God forbid, after — an allegation is made Insurance carriers — by instituting requirements and guidelines for acquiring coverage — have done a great job of bringing about change and moving church clients toward having a child protection policy in place. Indeed, with respect to our own church clients, […]
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National Child Abuse Prevention Month is upon us. Commemorate it by brushing up on some basics — and taking impactful action in your own church to protect children. Church Executive: As insurers, what kind of an increase in child sexual abuse claims have you seen among churches in recent years? Andrew Shockey: It was […]
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What would our houses of worship do without volunteers? They are essential to carrying out the mission of so many churches, supporting not only outreach and programming, but everyday operations. Volunteers are even more valuable in the current economic environment, as rising costs and labor shortages continue to put additional strain on already limited resources. […]
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Professional advice on what’s required for volunteers versus staff For many churches, a background check is the only line of defense employed when screening volunteers and staff. Is it enough? Brian Gleason: A background check is a best practice in searching for any previous convictions since previous behavior is the best indicator of future behavior. […]
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Churches want to do all they can to keep the children in their care far from harm. Yet, these spaces are often considered “soft targets” among offenders. That’s because — despite the best intentions — gaps and missteps are prevalent in churches’ efforts to create a safe space for all. Here, two expert panelists discuss […]
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Proven strategies to keep your people safe — from recognizing red flags to re-screening practices, cost considerations, and navigating potentially sensitive conversations Many churches fall victim to an “it-can’t-happen-here” mentality. In actuality, what makes churches especially prone to ill-intentioned volunteers? Norton: The nature and admirable traits of most clergy is one of compassion and trust. […]
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Expert advice for protecting the church’s children against sexual abuse and bullying — plus, how to mitigate internet-use risks What are the biggest risks and liabilities facing churches in the area of protecting children? Alex Smith: Allegations of sexual abuse are the greatest risk and liability. Also, complacency — saying, ‘We’ve always done it this […]
Read More >Help protect your church’s youngest members by taking these steps By Elizabeth Norman Childcare centers and preschools at churches across the nation are experiencing rapid growth right now — in fact, many of them are at capacity and even require waiting lists. With this demand, it’s important to remember to revisit procedures to help keep […]
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Church Executive spoke with experts in the fields of risk management and background checks about best practices associated with the care of children within the church — and how to equip your staff members with the knowledge they need to enact them. What are the biggest risks and liabilities facing churches in the area of […]
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Two esteemed attorneys and industry experts discuss the preeminent problem of child sexual abuse — and what every church leader can do to protect the children in their care Q: Just how big is the issue of sexual abuse in churches? Norris: Every study in the past decade indicates the same reality: the largest settlements […]
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