Screening Workers: Key Steps to Safeguard Children in Ministry
Ministries and churches hold a critical responsibility to protect children under their care. One of the most effective ways to prevent child abuse is by ensuring that those who work with children are properly vetted. This means conducting thorough investigations of all potential staff and volunteers before they are placed in roles where they will have direct access to children.
The Importance of Screening
The screening process is especially crucial for positions involving supervision or care of children. Should a child suffer abuse, the ministry may face legal action. Families can claim that the ministry failed in its duty to screen workers adequately, placing their child at risk. Proper screening can help prevent such tragic outcomes by identifying unsuitable candidates before they are hired or begin volunteer duties.
Staff and Volunteer Screening Form
All candidates, whether for paid or volunteer positions, must complete a detailed application. This form collects vital information to assess each applicant's suitability. Key areas covered should include:
Biographical and Geographical History: Current and previous addresses.
Personal Information: Date of birth, Social Security number, and other data necessary for background checks.
Ministry Involvement: History of church memberships, salvation experience, and reasons for leaving previous positions.
Educational and Professional Background: Include memberships, licenses, and certifications relevant to the role.
References: Names and addresses of references, particularly non-relatives.
Employment History: Past roles, responsibilities, and reasons for leaving.
Experience with Children: Previous roles in childcare or similar environments.
General Background: Any history of substance abuse, violence, or inappropriate conduct.
Criminal History: Disclosure of any criminal convictions, especially those related to child abuse or neglect.
Candidates should also be required to sign a declaration confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
Conducting Reference and Background Checks
A thorough reference and background check is essential. This includes:
Contacting Previous Employers and References: Use a standardized form to request information, focusing on reasons for leaving, rehire eligibility, and general performance.
Educational Verification: Obtain transcripts and verify degrees.
Licensing Verification: Check for relevant licenses, such as a driver’s license or childcare certifications.
Criminal Background Checks: Conduct nationwide checks for criminal records, particularly for any offenses related to child abuse. Utilize online databases of convicted sex offenders where available.
It’s crucial to document all steps taken in the screening process, including any gaps or discrepancies in the applicant’s history, and address these during interviews.
Interviewing Applicants
After completing reference checks, interview candidates to resolve any discrepancies or concerns raised during the initial screening. This is also the time for applicants to ask questions about the ministry and the position they’re applying for. If any issues arise during the interview that were not previously disclosed, they should be documented, and the decision to hire should be carefully considered.
Screening Teen Volunteers
Teens who wish to volunteer in children’s ministries must also undergo a screening process, though background checks may be limited due to sealed juvenile records. Instead, teens should provide references and letters of recommendation. If they have worked outside the home or in other volunteer roles, supervisors from those settings should be contacted as references. Teens should complete as much of the standard application as possible.
The screening process is a vital step in protecting the children in your ministry and safeguarding your organization from potential legal issues. By thoroughly vetting all candidates—paid or volunteer, adult or teen—you help create a safer environment for everyone involved.
For more information about Biblical Marriage & Sexuality, please see this article.
For more information about Child Safety Policies and Procedures, please download this booklet.
