The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the United Kingdom

Safeguarding Policies and Procedures

Europe North Area

Last updated in January 2024

safeguarding

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

This document comprises the safeguarding policies and procedures of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Great Britain) which is largely based on the policies, procedures and guidance of the worldwide Church. These policies are intended for use in the United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, youth and adults at risk. The Church affirms that all members and anyone who participates in Church meetings or events, without exception, have the right to protection from abuse, regardless of gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion/beliefs, pregnancy/maternity and gender reassignment.

This policy is approved and endorsed by the Europe North Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Trustees of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Great Britain).

This policy applies to, will inform and be made available, to all leaders, members and anyone who participates in Church meetings or events.

All concerns and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously by the Church. This may require a referral to Children’s or Adult Services and, in emergencies, the police.

The Church is committed to safe vetting and training of all who are called to serve in the Church with children, youth or vulnerable adults, as set out in this document.

This safeguarding policy is based upon principles, policies and guidelines taught by the Church as found in the General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (“General Handbook”), other online media and other materials published by the Church. This policy complies with all relevant legislation.

This policy will be reviewed and as necessary updated by the Trustees and Church leaders, on an annual basis, or after any significant safeguarding incident.

This policy will act in harmony with associated Church policies within the General Handbook, other online media and other materials published by the Church including policies relating to anti-bullying; health and safety, protection online; and photography.

Anyone who becomes aware of practices or incidents which may put vulnerable people at risk of harm should immediately report (Reporting Abuse). Any party making such a report will be treated with respect. There will be no retribution of any kind for reports or allegations made in good faith. If the concern relates to the bishop or stake president the individual making the report should contact the helpline directly.

back to top of page

mother

DOCTRINE

The scriptures declare that “children are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). The Saviour said “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:6).

The scriptures declare, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).

The Lord commanded, “Honour thy father and thy mother” (Exodus 20:12)

During his ministry the Lord showed special concern and compassion for disabled people. He said “Have ye any that are lame, or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither..., for I have compassion upon you” (3 Nephi 17:7). Those with physical, emotional, or mental disability are particularly vulnerable to abuse.

“Abuse constitutes the influence of the adversary. It is a grievous sin. As President of the Church, I affirm the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ on this issue. Let me be perfectly clear: any kind of abuse of women, children, or anyone is an abomination to the Lord. He grieves and I grieve whenever anyone is harmed. He mourns and we all mourn for each person who has fallen victim to abuse of any kind. Those who perpetrate these hideous acts are not only accountable to the laws of man but will also face the wrath of Almighty God” (see Russell M. Nelson, “What is True?”).

“We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfil family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God” (The Family: A Proclamation To The World, 23 Sept 1995).

See also Teaching Doctrine in the Gospel Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

back to top of page

jesus

DEFINITIONS

Abuse is the mistreatment or neglect of others in a way that causes physical, sexual, emotional, or financial harm. The Church’s position is that abuse cannot be tolerated in any form. Those who abuse their spouses, children, other family members, or anyone else, violate the laws of God and man (General Handbook, 38.6.2).

Abuse of a child or youth is an especially serious sin (see Luke 17:2). As used here, child or youth abuse includes the following (General Handbook, 38.6.2.3):

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

  • Physical abuse: Inflicting serious bodily harm by physical violence. Some harm may not be visible.
  • Sexual abuse or exploitation: Having any sexual activity with a child or youth or intentionally allowing or helping others to have such activity.
  • Emotional abuse: Using actions and words to seriously damage a child or youth’s sense of self-respect or self-worth. This usually involves repeated and continuing insults, manipulations, and criticisms that humiliate and belittle. It may also include gross neglect.
  • Child pornography.

VULNERABLE ADULTS (see page 9).

See also What Is Abuse in the Gospel Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

back to top of page

hands

VULNERABLE ADULTS

Abuse of a spouse or another adult can occur in many ways. These include physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse. Adults who are elderly, vulnerable, or disabled are sometimes at high risk of abuse. (General Handbook, 38.6.2.4).

Often there is not a single definition of abuse that can be applied in all situations. Instead, there is a spectrum of severity in abusive behaviour. This spectrum ranges from occasionally using sharp words to inflicting serious harm (General Handbook, 38.6.2.4).

If a bishop or stake president learns of abuse of a spouse or another adult, he promptly calls the helpline. The helpline is available for bishops and stake presidents to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The freephone telephone number for the United Kingdom is 0800 970 6757. Church leaders will receive specific direction on how to help victims, protect against future abuse, and meet reporting obligations. (General Handbook, 38.6.2.4).

Most victims are abused by people they know. Such people can be spouses, family members, dating partners, friends, or other acquaintances. Victims should be assured that they are never to blame for the harmful behaviour of others—no matter who abuses them. A victim is not guilty (See “Abuse”)

Leaders, family members, and friends should make every effort to stop abuse, find safety for the victim, and help the victim seek healing. Some victims may need help reporting abuse to government authorities. Victims may also need help through their healing process from professionals, including doctors and counsellors. (See “Abuse – How to Help”)

back to top of page

SAFEGUARDING ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The stake president holds the priesthood keys to lead the work of the Church in the stake. He and his counsellors form a stake presidency. They care for stake members with love, helping them become true followers of Jesus Christ (General Handbook 6.2). The bishop holds the priesthood keys to lead the work of the Church in the ward. He and his counsellors form a bishopric. They receive guidance from the stake presidency. They care for ward members with love, helping them become true followers of Jesus Christ (General Handbook, 7.1).

Stake presidencies and bishoprics should ensure that what they say about abuse is based on Church doctrine (Abuse: Help, Healing, and Protection).

In stake and ward council meetings, stake presidencies and bishoprics regularly (at least annually) review Church policies and guidelines on preventing and responding to abuse. They teach the key messages in the Abuse section of Life Help in the Gospel Library. Members of stake and ward councils should then discuss this material in their respective presidency and leadership meetings and with others, as needed.

All priesthood and Church organization leaders should be familiar with and follow the current Church policies and guidelines on abuse to help protect God’s children (Abuse: Help, Healing, and Protection).

The stake presidency may determine to call a stake safeguarding specialist either as a stake welfare and self-reliance specialist, a stake communications specialist or an “other” stake calling (General Handbook, 30.8.3). The stake safeguarding specialist may also be a high counsellor dedicated to this assignment.

back to top of page

 

roles

STAKE SAFEGUARDING SPECIALIST

The stake president holds the priesthood keys to lead the work of the Church in the stake. The bishop holds the priesthood keys to lead the work of the Church in the ward. The stake safeguarding specialist assists the stake president to facilitate and monitor the Church’s commitment to prevent and respond to abuse.

The stake presidency may determine to call a stake safeguarding specialist either as a stake welfare and self-reliance specialist, a stake communications specialist or an “other” stake calling (General Handbook, 30.8.3). The stake safeguarding specialist may also be a high counsellor dedicated to this assignment.

The role of the stake safeguarding specialist includes:

  1. Ensuring the regular review of Church policies and guidelines on preventing and responding to abuse is undertaken in stake and ward councils, within organisation presidencies and leadership meetings and with others as needed.
  2. Supporting and monitoring to ensure quality safeguarding training in stake and ward meetings, including providing instruction as required.
  3. Ensuring criminal records check is complete and current before a member begins any assignment or calling to work with children or youth.
  4. Ensuring that all adults who work with children and youth have completed the Protecting Children and Youth online training within one month of being called and then repeat the training every three years.
  5. Assisting with an annual safeguarding audit (Safeguarding Audit).
  6. Training Church leaders to promptly call the abuse helpline about every situation in which a person has been abused, is at risk of being abused or if the Church leader becomes aware of a member viewing, purchasing, or distributing child pornography (General Handbook, 38.6.2.1)

Specially trained Family Services advisors, accredited to a high level of safeguarding knowledge (level 3 safeguarding), will act as a resource to deliver quality training and support to the stake safeguarding specialist (The Role of Family Services).

back to top of page

 

THE ROLE OF FAMILY SERVICES

Victims of sexual abuse, rape, or other forms of sexual assault often suffer serious trauma. When they confide in a bishop or stake president, he responds with heartfelt compassion and empathy. He provides spiritual counselling and support to help victims overcome the destructive effects of abuse. He also calls the Church’s abuse helpline for guidance (General Handbook, 38.6.18.2).

In addition to receiving the inspired help of Church leaders, victims, offenders, and their families may need professional counselling (General Handbook, 38.6.2.2).

Family Services provide a professional consultation service to Church leaders to help them better understand the social and emotional needs and challenges of their members, and to determine what resources and services are available. The Church’s abuse helpline will assist Church leaders engage with Family Services to arrange a consultation.

The member may use approved therapists screened by Family Services. If Church funds are paying for therapy, counselling expenditures need to be authorised by a bishop, stake president, or mission president, in advance.

Family Services are committed to providing resources to strengthen the home and family (see Family Services).

Family Services will provide training based upon these safeguarding policies and procedures in ongoing training in stakes and wards.

Specially trained Family Services advisors, accredited to a high level of safeguarding training (level 3 safeguarding), will provide training and support to the stake safeguarding specialist, and, when invited as a secondary resource, may attend stake meetings to assist with safeguarding training in the stake.

back to top of page

 

family services

SAFEGUARDING TRAINING

In stake and ward councils, bishoprics and stake presidencies (at least annually, or more frequently as required) review in a dedicated meeting Church policies and guidelines on preventing and responding to abuse. They teach the key messages in the Abuse section of Life Help in the Gospel Library. They invite discussion from council members. Leaders and council members seek the guidance of the Spirit as they teach and discuss this sensitive subject.

Stake presidencies and bishoprics should ensure that what they say about abuse is based on Church doctrine (Abuse: Help, Healing, and Protection). The materials referred to in this policy should form the basis of all training.

Stake presidencies and bishoprics present Preventing and Responding to Abuse (safeguarding) information in stake and ward council meetings. Members of stake and ward councils should then discuss this material in their respective presidency and leadership meetings and with others, as needed (Abuse: Help, Healing, and Protection).

“Stake and ward council members and adults serving children and youth (including substitute teachers) must complete the Protecting Children and Youth training within one month of being called (see General Handbook 20.7.1 and 38.6.2)”

The stake safeguarding specialist will work closely with stake and ward leaders to ensure that safeguarding training is provided within the stake and ward councils, within organisation presidencies and leadership meetings and that all adults who work with children and youth complete the children and youth protection online training (Stake Safeguarding Specialist).

Specially trained Family Services advisors, accredited to a high level of safeguarding training (level 3 safeguarding), are a resource to train and support stake safeguarding specialists and should support the training identified above (The Role of Family Services).

back to top of page

 

SAFEGUARDING PRINCIPLES

PRE-CALLING STEPS

Those who serve in the Church are called of God (see Hebrews 5:4; Articles of Faith 1:5). Leaders seek the guidance of the Spirit in determining whom to call. They also consider (amongst other things) the member’s worthiness (General Handbook, 30.1.1).

Before a calling is extended, the leader carefully reviews the person’s membership record to verify that it does not include an annotation or formal membership restrictions. If it does, the leader makes inquiries to determine whether the annotation or restrictions affect the ability of the individual to work with children, youth or vulnerable adults, and if so he or she must not be given any calling or assignment involving children, youth or vulnerable adults. This includes not being given a ministering assignment to a family with youth or children in the home. It also includes not having a youth as a ministering companion (General Handbook, 30.1.1 and 38.6.2.5)

All adult members working with children or youth must have a criminal records check before an eligible calling is extended. If a member does not have a criminal records check noted on their membership record, the Church will apply for a criminal records check with the member’s consent. The member is not given an eligible calling or assignment with children or youth until the criminal records check is completed. (Criminal Records Check).

Before a stake leader extends a calling, the person’s bishop is consulted to discuss the member’s worthiness and other circumstances that could influence his or her service (General Handbook, 30.1.1).

A person whose membership has been formally restricted or has been withdrawn may not have a calling (General Handbook, 30.1.3).

If the calling includes working with children or youth, the leader explains that the member will need to complete the Protecting Children and Youth training (General Handbook, 30.2).

Those who are called to most Church positions should be presented for sustaining before they begin serving (see Doctrine and Covenants 28:13; 42:11) (General Handbook, 30.3).

back to top of page

 

safe guarding principles

SAFEGUARDING PRINCIPLES

DURING CALLING STEPS

Interviews with members. Leaders should always give the member the option of having someone else present during an interview or meeting. When meeting with a member of the opposite sex, a child, or a youth, they ensure that a parent or another adult is present. He or she may join the meeting or wait outside the room, depending on the preferences of the member with whom they are meeting (General Handbook 31.1.4)

Protecting Children and Youth Training. All adults who work with children or youth must complete the Protecting Children and Youth training within one month of being sustained. They repeat the training every three years thereafter (General Handbook, 10.8.1, 11.6.1, 12.5.1).

Interacting with Children or Youth. When adults are interacting with children or youth in Church settings, at least two responsible adults should be present. It may be necessary to combine classes to make this possible (General Handbook, 10.8.1, 11.6.1, 12.5.1).

Restroom Safety. Leaders and teachers should encourage parents to take their children to the restroom before Primary. During Primary, a young child must be taken to the restroom by a parent or legal guardian. Leaders and teachers should not take children into the restroom (General Handbook, 12.5.4).

Church-sponsored activities. At least two adults must be present at all Church activities attended by children and youth. Additional adults may be needed depending on the size of the group, the skills required for the activity, or other factors. Parents are encouraged to help (General Handbook, 20.7.1). Specific and careful consideration should be given to the types and numbers of adults, given nature of the activity, e.g. for a large Primary activity or large dance.

One-on-one situations. Leaders should avoid one-on-one contact with a child or youth unless they are clearly visible to nearby leaders. Also avoid one-on-one contact through phone, texts, social media, videoconference, and so on unless other leaders are included. (Reaffirming Safety Guidelines in Activities, First Presidency letter, 30 April 2023).

Ministering Assignments for Youth. The Church’s guideline that two responsible adults be present with youth does not apply to ministering companions. However, leaders use wisdom and seek inspiration when assigning youth as companions to adults. They also seek guidance from the bishop. When a youth is assigned to a companion who is not his or her parent, leaders confirm that the parents do not object to the assignment. Adult companions should avoid situations that might be misunderstood. They use care in one-on-one situations. They help youth have a safe and rewarding experience with ministering (General Handbook, 21.2.1). Leaders should take exceptional care when making such assignments, and they should be an exception rather than the rule.

back to top of page

 

REPORTING ABUSE

When abuse occurs, the first and immediate responsibility of Church leaders is to help those who have been abused and to protect vulnerable persons from future abuse. Leaders should not encourage a person to remain in a home or situation that is abusive or unsafe (General Handbook, 38.6.2).

All members, especially parents and leaders, are encouraged to be alert and diligent and do all they can to protect children and others against abuse. If members become aware of instances of abuse, they report it to civil authorities and counsel with the bishop (General Handbook, 38.6.2 Italics added). No Church leader should ever dismiss a report of abuse or counsel a member not to report criminal activity (See “In Crisis? Talk Now”).

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) says: “Whether you want to report child abuse and neglect or aren’t sure what to do, we’re here to listen, offer advice and support, and can take the next steps if a child’s in danger” and “Our Helpline team are here to support you in a stress-free, comfortable way. Finding out what happens when you get in touch can help put your mind at ease about the process”. The following links contain helpful information about reporting:

• Reporting a concern for a child – Report child abuse or What to do if you’re worried about a child

• How to raise a safeguarding concern about an adult

• Reporting a concern about a vulnerable adult – Abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults

Bishops and stake presidents should promptly call the helpline when addressing situations involving any type of abuse. Legal professionals will answer their questions. The helpline is available for bishops and stake presidents to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The freephone number for the United Kingdom is: 0800 970 6757 (General Handbook, 38.6.2).

The Church is committed to complying with the law on reporting abuse (General Handbook, 38.6.2.7).

back to top of page

 

report abuse

CARING FOR VICTIMS, OFFENDERS AND FAMILIES

VICTIMS

Victims of abuse often suffer serious trauma. Stake presidents and bishops respond with heartfelt compassion and empathy. They provide spiritual counselling and support to help victims overcome the destructive effects of abuse. Sometimes victims have feelings of shame or guilt. Victims are not guilty of sin. Leaders help them and their families understand God’s love and the healing that comes through Jesus Christ and His Atonement (see Alma 15:8; 3 Nephi 17:9). (General Handbook, 38.6.2.2)

OFFENDERS

Stake presidents and bishops should help those who have committed abuse to repent and to cease their abusive behaviour. If an adult has committed a sexual sin against a child, the behaviour may be very difficult to change. The process of repentance may be very prolonged (General Handbook, 38.6.2.2). Section 32 of the General Handbook is organized to guide leaders through the key decisions and actions necessary to help someone repent of a serious sin and to help protect others. (General Handbook, 32.4.3)

Stake presidents and bishops should ensure they follow the procedures regarding annotations including:

  • Following the instructions in the annotation (General Handbook, 32.14.5)
  • The person subject to annotation must not be given any calling or assignment involving children or youth. This includes not being given a ministering assignment to a family with youth or children in the home. It also includes not having a youth as a ministering companion (General Handbook, 38.6.2.5).

FAMILIES

Stake presidents and bishops should also be caring and sensitive when working with the families of victims and perpetrators of abuse. Guidance for counselling victims and offenders is provided at Abuse: How to Help.

In addition to receiving the inspired help of Church leaders, victims, offenders, and their families may need professional counselling. Church leaders are not called to be professional counsellors or to provide therapy. The assistance they give is spiritual, focusing on the strengthening, comforting, redeeming power of Jesus Christ. In addition to this important and inspired help, some members may benefit from professional counselling ... Such counselling or therapy can help members understand and respond to life’s challenges in healthy ways. If members cannot pay for professional counselling on their own or through insurance, bishops may use fast offerings to assist (General Handbook, 31.3.6).

Family Services are a resource to Church leaders assisting victims, offenders and their families. Guidance is provided at Family Services. (The Role of Family Services)

Stake presidents and bishops should promptly call the helpline when a known or suspected offender attends Church meetings or events to ensure legal requirements are met and appropriate safeguards are put in place. The helpline is available for bishops and stake presidents to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The phone number for the United Kingdom is 0800 970 6757. Helpline professionals will give instructions to Church leaders about how to help protect potential victims from known or suspected offenders and how to sensitively support offenders trying to live the gospel (Reporting Abuse)

back to top of page

 

caring

SAFEGUARDING AUDIT

Each year a safeguarding audit is conducted which asks the following four questions, and undertakes the follow-up indicated:

  1. Has a stake safeguarding specialist been called in the Stake and are they effectively functioning?
  • If not, call a stake safeguarding specialist and arrange for training with Family Services within 30 days.
  1. Has each member of the stake/ward working with children or youth been criminal records checked?
  • If not, suspend service of the individual in their calling until completed.
  1. Has each member of the stake/ward required to complete the Protecting Children and Youth online training, completed it within one month of being sustained.
  • If not, suspend service of the individual in their calling until completed.
  1. Has the stake/ward council undertaken safeguarding training in the last 12 months?
  • If not, schedule a date to undertake the safeguarding training within the next 30 days.

back to top of page

 

audit

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

back to top of page