Abuse Prevention Policy

At Grand Valley Church, we are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all individuals, especially children, youth, and vulnerable adults. We follow best practices in abuse prevention as outlined by Plan to Protect®, ensuring that our ministry spaces are safe, transparent, and accountable.

1. Screening & Training

All staff and volunteers working with children, youth, or vulnerable persons must:

• Complete a written application and interview

• Provide personal and pastoral references

• Undergo a criminal record and vulnerable sector check

• Complete approved abuse prevention training before serving

2. Supervision & Ratios

• We maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios for all age groups

• Two screened adults must be present at all times during ministry activities

• All ministry rooms have windows or open-door visibility for accountability

3. Reporting Procedures

• All concerns, suspicions, or disclosures of abuse will be taken seriously

• We follow mandatory reporting laws in Ontario and will contact child protection authorities as required

• No one will be penalized for making a report in good faith

4. Physical Contact & Boundaries

• Physical contact is limited to what is appropriate, non-coercive, and publicly observable

• Volunteers and staff are trained to recognize and avoid inappropriate behaviour, grooming, or boundary violations

5. Communication & Technology

• One-on-one communication between adults and minors must be transparent, accountable, and documented when necessary

• Texting, emails, or private messages between volunteers/staff and minors must follow established guidelines and, where possible, include parents or team leads

6. Facility Safety

• We ensure safe environments through regular facility checks, emergency procedures, and age-appropriate space design

• Emergency contacts and allergy/medical information are kept current and confidential

7. Accountability

• All team members are expected to uphold this policy and immediately report any violation

• Failure to follow this policy may result in removal from ministry roles

Our Commitment:
We are committed to protecting the vulnerable, equipping our volunteers, and building trust with families. Abuse has no place in the Church, and we will do all we can to prevent it.

For more information or to request a copy of our full Plan to Protect® manual, please contact our church office.