Screening is part of the leadership appointment process. It is one way that the leadership can determine in advance if a particular individual is appropriate and eligible to lead or volunteer within the church.
The main steps that should be followed when appointing a leader or volunteer are:
- Have a position description for each role
- The individual to complete an application form
- Screening occurs – such as Working with Children Check, police check and referee check
- Sign Code of Conduct
- Receive appropriate training, such as Creating Safe Spaces every 4 years
- Receive an orientation or induction to that role
- Ongoing training, support, supervision and review as appropriate.
The purpose of an application form is to gather details about the individual in order to determine they are a suitable person to undertake that role. It should include what role they are applying for, evidence of screening (such as WWCC details), and a signed statement that the individual has never committed sexual abuse of children of vulnerable adult.
Referees
The two main purposes to contacting referees is to confirm that the individual is competent to undertake that particular role, and, to confirm the individual is a safe person to work with children, young people and/or vulnerable adults.
For most senior leadership roles within a church, two references would be requested: one from within the church, one from outside the church. Neither referee should be a family member.
For lower level volunteers or occasional helpers, referees are generally not required.
For pastors and paid staff, additional references are generally required.
Code of Conduct
A Code of Conduct sets out clear expectations for how leaders and volunteers should behave in their roles, helping to ensure a culture of integrity, safety, and respect. All pastors and senior leaders, as well as most volunteers, should read and sign a Code of Conduct before commencing their role. Codes of Conduct should be reviewed regularly.
For pastors and paid staff, additional references are generally required.