RE Safety:
Our highest priority in religious education is to maintain an environment that is physically, emotionally, and spiritually safe. When you are leading RE or a social event, the needs of the children and youth need to be your highest priority. If, for some reason, you are not able to be emotionally or spiritually present for the children (i.e., family emergency, health problems, etc.,) please let Sarah know as soon as possible so she can find a sub. Please read the safety policy below for the specific requirements for RE safety.
Religious Education Safety Policy
ADOPTED BY THE UUFW BOARD OF DIRECTORS: March 9, 2016
3.3 Congregational Safety
All staff and members of the UUFW shall take care to prevent harm to any person who participates in congregational activities. When a problem or hazard that could pose a risk to anyone is identified, it shall be promptly corrected. The minister shall ensure that:
•Procedures necessary to ensure compliance with congregational safety policies are established and periodically reviewed and
updated
•Staff and volunteers receive appropriate safety training
•Facilities are maintained in a safe, sanitary and secure condition
•Required licenses and inspections are up-to-date
3.3.1 Emergency Response
Information on how UUFW responds to emergencies and potentially dangerous conditions shall be published and made available to the congregation. These situations include medical emergencies, fire, weather problems, power outages, threatening communications, natural disasters and other conditions that may put the safety of members and guests at risk.
3.3.1.1 Facility Evacuation
The UUFW shall have written evacuation procedures posted in the Fellowship Hall and each room of the Chalice House. Each posting shall show evacuation routes in case of fire or other emergency requiring evacuation. Posted procedures for evacuating religious education classrooms shall detail the responsibilities of teachers and assistants and identify designated safe meeting places.
3.3.1.2 Medical Emergencies
In case of a perceived medical emergency during a UUFW service or program, those in leadership positions shall make sure 911 is called and shall coordinate immediate assistance until professional help arrives. Members shall be periodically reminded of the location
of first-aid supplies in the Fellowship Hall and Chalice House. An incident report following a medical emergency shall be written up and placed on file.
3.3.2 Safety of Children and Vulnerable Adults
The UUFW has a special responsibility to protect children and vulnerable adults from injury, abuse or exploitation. Staff and volunteers who work with children or provide pastoral care to adult members shall be screened and adequately trained before beginning their work and shall be provided appropriate oversight, materials and support as they perform their duties.
3.3.2.1 Supervision of Children in UUFW Facilities
When children and youth at UUFW are not participating in religious education programs or child care, supervision is the responsibility
of their parent or
designated caregiver. While participating in RE activi
ties, whether indoors or
outside, children and youth shall be supervised at all
times by RE staff and
volunteers.
3.3.2.2 Child Abuse Prevention
Precautions shall be taken to prevent the possibility of abuse of children in the care of UUFW. The minister shall ensure that written child abuse prevention procedures include:
•Selection, training and supervision of anyone who provides religious education services to children and youth or supervises them
in RE activities
•Safe staffing and monitoring of classroom activities and child care
•Guidelines for avoiding situations in which the suspicion of abuse could occur
3.3.2.3 Safe Classrooms and Playground
All materials and equipment used by children shall be selected with safety in mind. Classrooms and playgrounds shall be regularly inspected for safety hazards.