Safe Church Resource Team

Congregational Commitment

“We are committed to providing a safe environment for all individuals attending congregational activities, free of personal harassment, including sexual harassment. If you have any concerns or questions, or just want further information, please call any one of the committee members.”

Background

The Safe Church concept grew out of the policy on sexual misconduct which was developed in the mid-90s as a response to incidents of abuse by ministers in other congregations. By 2001 when the current policy was developed, it was felt that a policy on sexual misconduct sounded punitive and was too narrow, hence the name change and a broader mandate.

On recommendation from The Safe Church Resource Team, the Religious Education committee implemented policies to complete child abuse registry checks for all religious educators, and to inform our educators about the “Child Protection and Child Abuse Protocols for Teachers” (from Manitoba Family Services) to deal with concerns about abuse and handling disclosures of abuse. The resource team has not had to deal with many concerns or complaints regarding children or adults over the years, but the resource team is there should the need arise.

Policy

The congregation passed the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg Safe Church Policy in 2001. The policy is extensive and outlines procedures to be followed to make and/or to deal with any concern or complaint. A copy of the policy may be obtained by contacting a member of the resource team.
Members Of The Safe Church Resource Team

As of November 2007 the Safe Church Resource Team members are Kristine Barr and Shannon Breckman. There have been two resignations and we expect to have a full roster of members soon.

Kristine Barr is a practicing lawyer and a trustee for the Winnipeg School Division. Shannon Breckman (phone: 896-1515) is a practicing lawyer and mediator, and a former teacher.

Mandate

The mandate of the Safe Church Resource Team is:

* to deal with concerns raised in regard to personal harassment, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse
* of or by church employees, members, or visitors during or associated with any church related function
* following a process as outlined in the Safe Church policy
* with the goal of maintaining a safe environment for all children and adults involved with congregational activities.

We Are Here To Help

If you feel threatened, personally or sexually harassed, or treated inappropriately during or associated with a church related function, please do not remain silent; phone Shannon Breckman at 896-1515, or send an email to the Safe Church Resource Team.