Here are some things you might want to consider regarding the preparedness of your ushers and greeters: ...

The team should decide on the necessary response on a case-by-case basis and will inform the appropriate persons (generally the Minister, Committee on Ministry, and the Board) before acting. Any of the following levels of response can be recommended: No action: After meeting with all persons...

To determine the necessary response, the following points should be considered: Causes: Why is the disruption occurring? Is it a conflict between the individual and others in the congregation? Is it due to a professionally diagnosed condition of mental illness? Is it a cultural difference?...

As we assess any given situation, we must first discern whether or not an immediate response is required. For example: moments before worship begins, you are alerted about a member who is engaging in your congregation’s closed Facebook group sharing articles, videos, and their own strong opinions...

Our congregations strive to be inclusive communities, affirming our differences in beliefs, opinions, and life experiences. However, in some cases, concern for the safety and well-being of the congregation as a whole must be given priority over the privileges and inclusion of an individual....

Developing a Covenant of Right Relations can be a useful method for addressing disruptive behavior. It defines the guiding values and the boundaries regarding appropriate behavior for participants in the life of a congregation....

Is It Rude, Mean, or Bullying Behavior? There is a real need to draw a distinction between behavior that is rude, behavior that is mean, and behavior that is characteristic of bullying. Rude = Inadvertently saying or doing something that hurts someone else. Incidents of rudeness are usually...

A compilation of checklists found in Guide: Becoming a Safer Congregation Building Security Checklist Building and Grounds Safety Checklist Cold Weather Maintenance Checklist Exit Safety Checklist Financial Controls Checklist Fire Safety Checklist Kitchen Safety Checklist Stairway Safety Checklis...

The following guidelines apply to teenagers working with children: They must be at least 14 years old. They must be screened. They must be under the supervision of a non-parent/guardian adult and must never be left alone with children....

Establish clear check in/check out procedures for children that includes documentation of who is authorized to pick up a child, all appropriate registration/permission forms, emergency contact information, and medical release and media release forms. An official check-in and check-out process is...

Because of the power disparities and the potential for boundary violation in pastoral care conversations between adults and youth, we recommend adults engage in these best practices to create a supportive, appropriately confidential, and safer space for youth. For religious professionals doing...

Staff volunteers and lay leaders need to be informed about mandated reporting requirements in your state. The When Abuse is Suspected chapter of the UUA's Balancing Acts resource offers some guidance on what to do. These laws change frequently and should be researched at least annually....

After you’ve done your due diligence through the hiring and screening process, and you’ve ensured that people are trained, the congregation can still be held liable for injuries or damages on the basis of negligent supervision. This refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care in the...

Your team should include: Staff: Minister and Religious Educator A member of the board A member of the Safe Congregations team or a congregant with background in emergency management or first response Someone who brings awareness and sensitivity to the particular needs of the elderly and persons...

Once approved, the congregation’s Emergency Operations Plan should be shared with first responders and/or local emergency management officials....

Incidents of vandalism appear to be on the rise, especially in an increasingly polarized world. While often "only" nuisance crimes, these can also undermine a congregation's feeling of safety and security in the buildings. These are some resources we find useful in thinking about preventing...

The UUA has a planning guide for active shooter incidents, developed by our Safe Congregations team and incorporating wisdom from a variety of resources. See other sample active shooter emergency resources developed by our congregations....

Once the plan is approved, the team should plan to teach the community about the plan and encourage practice, review and make periodic adjustment. It is important to practice the plan regularly since people may forget the steps, circumstances may change, new people may join and the leadership of...