The Open Episcopal Church in Scotland

The safety and comfort of children is of paramount importance to us. The Open Episcopal Church in Scotland ensures that all clergy and volunteers working specifically with vulnerable groups, whether vulnerable adults or children, are properly screened and background checked as members of the Scottish Government's PVG Scheme

Accordingly, the diocese operates a child protection policy

GENERAL GUIDELINES

• We will treat all young 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