Anti-Abuse
Policy

Anti-Abuse Policy and Process​

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Bartley Christian Church seeks to provide a safe and conducive environment for church service, gatherings and ministry.

As such, this policy addresses our commitment to such an environment by ensuring the safety of church staff and church volunteers by protecting them against all forms of abuse and harassment in the church facility, and supporting those who faced incidents of abuse.

 

Definition of Abuse:

Abuse and harassment can occur in a physical and/or a virtual setting, when an individual, through his or her words, communication, actions, or behaviours that are inappropriate, threatening or insulting:

a)    Causes a church staff or church volunteer to feel intimidated, alarmed, or distressed; and/or

b)    Hinders or impedes the church staff or church volunteer in carrying out his/her duties.

 

Response Protocol:

During an incident of abuse or harassment, the church staff or volunteer has the right to take immediate action to protect himself/herself and others from harm. 

 

Such actions may include:

1. Politely informing the person that he/she is creating an inappropriate situation with their actions. 

 

2. Telling the person firmly to stop his/her abusive behaviour and giving appropriate instructions to de-escalate the situation.

 

When necessary, advise the person to co-operate with instructions that are appropriate in the given circumstance.

E.g. “Sir/Madam, please calm down and do not shout. I know you are upset, but you may want to wait over there first and calm down. I will get someone to come over and attend to you.”

 

3. Immediately informing the operations staff, any pastors, or Elders of the church, so they can attend to the situation. Do not attempt to challenge the person in an aggressive manner.

 

4. If the person continues the abuse and/or becomes aggressive or threatening, move away from him/her and seek safety in a place with crowds.

 

5. Do not take pictures or video recordings to avoid escalating tensions. Let the operations staff, pastors or Elders handle this. 

 

6. In instances where the person is at a severe risk of causing harm (e.g. having a weapon) or causing harm (e.g. beating someone up with a weapon), please call the police immediately for assistance.

 

Reporting

The church staff or volunteer should report all incidents of abuse and harassment to any pastor or Elder. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and impartially.

 

Support and Follow Up

The church leadership will offer the necessary support for staff and/or volunteers who are victims of abuse and harassment.

 

Perpetrators who are referred to the police may be charged under relevant sections of the Penal Code or the Protection from Harassment Act.

 

Regardless of police proceedings and outcomes, the church leadership may also take concurrent and appropriate disciplinary actions against perpetrators. E.g. Administer church discipline, Bar the perpetrator from entering the church premise for a period of time.