Child Safety Coordinator Tools
When implementing new child safety measures, it is helpful to designate a Child Safety Coordinator and to assemble a Child Safety Team to oversee this process. Creating, implementing, and maintaining a program that protects the vulnerable and cares well for the abused in your congregation is worthwhile and God-honoring – but it will be no small task. It is not an undertaking to embark upon alone.
The Child Safety Team should be made up of both church staff and members whose backgrounds could contribute expertise or a unique perspective to the area of abuse prevention. The team should include both men and women who are familiar with all aspects of your church, its ministries, and facilities. The Child Safety Coordinator leads this team, organizing efforts and keeping the process driving forward.
What does the Child Safety Coordinator Do?
- Increases capacity for maintaining child safety measures
- Leads and advocates for child safety efforts in the ministry
- Becomes the point of contact for questions regarding child safety and the ministry’s child protection program
- Understands your ministry’s response plan and leads the crisis response team
- Contributes to accountability in maintaining the safety measures put into place
Who should we appoint as Child Safety Coordinator?
- Children’s ministry director
- Parent
- Trusted volunteer
- Any capable church member
The bottom line is that this person does not have to be a full-time paid staff member! Find someone who is willing to commit themselves to this cause and equip them to take it on.
Who should be on our Child Safety Team?
Consider including some combination of individuals in these roles:
- Member of senior leadership or pastoral staff
- Counselor
- Ministry representatives (e.g. Children’s ministry, youth ministry, VBS, etc.)
- Parents of children in your ministry
- Administrative staff members
- Children’s ministry volunteer
Explore the tools below to learn more about the role of Child Safety Coordinator.
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So You Want to Be a Child Safety Coordinator… Maybe?
I get it—child safety isn’t exactly the role everyone’s lining up for. It doesn’t come with confetti, stage time, or a cool Spotify playlist. But if you’ve found yourself here—whether by calling, conviction, or maybe just a “you’d be great at this!” conversation with your pastor—let me encourage you: it’s worth it. Like, really worth…
Coming Soon: Equipped to Protect: Stepping Into the Role of Child Safety Coordinator
Virtual Training Institute webinar recording
Child Safety Coordinator Job Description
Child Safety Coordinator White Paper
Tools for Child Safety Coordinators
Explore our Ministry Toolbox, including Essentials Abuse Prevention & Response Guide for Ministries, for resources on developing and maintaining a child protection plan for your ministry.