CSSM MB Summer Missionary Manual - Reporting 3
Reporting Procedures
B. Mission Personnel Discipline
In the event that a credible allegation of child abuse has been made against any full time personnel or volunteer of CSSM ministries, the individual shall immediately be suspended from any involvement with children or youth until such time as the matter has been investigated by the provincial child protection agency and / or the police. If the allegation has been deemed to be unfounded, then the individual may be permitted to resume his or her responsibilities. If it has been determined that the allegation has some foundation, then participation by the individual in any CSSM ministry involving children or youth shall be prohibited permanently.
If it is proven that any fulltime personnel or volunteer of CSSM Ministries has committed child abuse, CSSM shall immediately terminate employment or participation by the volunteer in any ministry involving children or youth.
This individual shall not be permitted to participate in any CSSM ministry involving children or youth in the future.
1. Use a Reporting Procedure
Develop a reporting procedure for all programs that involve work with children. Workers shall be instructed as to what behaviours should be reported and to whom they should report. Workers should be assured that provincial law protects them from liability when they report actual or suspected abuse, as long as they do not act maliciously.
2. Select a Spokesperson
CSSM is responsible to appoint a spokesperson for the Mission. This person will be chosen on their ability to speak to the media for the organization regarding the matter in a discrete, informed, truthful and diplomatic way. Often, the media interviews several leaders who have never given any consideration to responding to such inquiries. In such cases, conflicting and contradictory statements occur and the public may develop a negative impression of the organization. This is avoided if one person is designated to speak for the organization in such cases.
3. Prepare a Position Statement
Having a carefully prepared statement is far superior to making no comment. This is an opportunity to influence public opinion positively by emphasizing an awareness of the problem of child abuse, a concern for victims and the extensive steps CSSM has taken to reduce the risk and provide a safe environment for children. Let the media know that CSSM takes the risk of child abuse seriously and that the CSSM has acted responsibly. Describe all the precautions CSSM has taken and the CSSM has implemented. This is not time for silence or "no comment".
In an allegation of abuse, the statement below is suggested wording for a public response until all the facts are uncovered and the case reviewed.
"It is always tragic when children are abused or exploited. CSSM Ministries is aware of the ever-growing nature of child abuse. We have taken careful precautions to protect the children entrusted to our care. We are distressed by any accusation of child abuse. We will do everything in our power to address any needs in this situation. For the welfare of those involved all information has been directed to the Provincial Child Abuse Reporting Agency (day 785-5340 or night 1-866-345-9241)
C. Report FoIlow Up
A confidential follow-up report with conclusions and action taken should always be made to the CSSM Branch Director and the National Director following a child abuse report. This report will be kept in a confidential personnel file.
D. When An Allegation Occurs
1. Don't Engage in Denial, Minimization or Blame
Many organizations, when confronted with an allegation of abuse, respond in one or more of the following ways:
a. Deny that the incident occurred despite clear evidence to the contrary.
b. Acknowledge that the incident occurred, but minimize it. For example, a church leader may say, "it only happened once" or "it wasn't that serious"
c. Blame the victim or the victim's family.
These responses are all inappropriate and should be avoided.
2. Don't be Accusatory
Do not under any circumstances spell out the details of any accusation in a public interview. NEVER, under any circumstances give the name of the victim or the alleged abuser to members of the general public.
In the case of an actual allegation, follow these guidelines:
a. Document all your efforts at handling the incident.
b. Report the incident immediately to the mission's lawyer and CSSM officials. Do not try to handle this without professional outside assistance. The accused should do the same.
c. Contact the proper civil authorities following the guidance of the mission's lawyer. Do not attempt an in-depth investigation. This should be left to professionals who are familiar with these cases.
d. Do not prejudge the situation, but take the allegations seriously. Showing care and support help to prevent further hurt.
e. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.