Clergy and Educator Abuse Survivors Empowered!	Prevention

SAMPLE

Response Plan

To Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse

In the event of any allegations of child sexual abuse at church or on church related functions, the following response plan should be implemented immediately.

1. The safety of the child and other children will be secured by relieving the accused of his or her duties.
2. Report to Child Protective Services (CPS) immediately by telephone. File a written report within 36 hours.
3. In the event that allegations of child sexual abuse are brought against a pastor, contact the Human Relations Department of the local conference immediately.
4. The pastor, church representatives, administrator and/or board will take allegations seriously and show care and support to prevent further harm. Whatever pastoral resources are needed should be extended to the victim(s).
5. The accused should be treated with dignity and support. The accused must be notified of the suspension of duties until after the investigation clears or substantiates the allegations. If the accused is a paid employee, the Human Resources Director will give specific guidance for continuance of compensation during the period of investigation. This decision will be communicated to the employee.
6. If there are media inquiries, the pastor and/or administrator should consult with the local conference Communication Department and the Human Resources Department. Confidentiality and privacy of all involved, especially the victims and their families, must be safeguarded.
7. All efforts to handle allegations must be documented.
8. Any church (private) investigation is generally delayed until policy investigation is complete. Private investigation is affected by the results of police investigation. Consult with the Human Resources Director.