Once you become aware of a life-threatening allergy, ask a parent or guardian to fill out an “Allergy Action Plan” form. These should be kept in a binder and made available to the volunteers during each session. If an emergency were to arise, workers should follow contact instructions as...

In 2007, it was estimated that more than 3 million children, aged 18 years and under, had some kind of food allergy, and that number has been rising. Allergic reactions can range anywhere from mild – with symptoms like redness and itchiness – to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can...

Food is often a part of congregational life. Meals, potlucks, coffee hour, and classroom snacks can all pose a potential threat to persons with severe food allergies. Identifying children with food allergies via registration forms is just one piece of prevention....

The “two person” rule applies when diapering children and during bathroom trips. Diapers should be changed in the nursery, where two unrelated adults are present. Under no circumstances should one volunteer take a child into a bathroom or other separate room for a diaper change. For children...

Conduct education for staff and volunteers on abuse prevention awareness in the context of positive sexuality education for children, youth, and parents/guardians at least every other year, including such topics as safer internet use and bystander and anti-bullying education. Hold annual training...

In addition to the training required to successfully fulfill their duties as staff or volunteers, all staff and volunteers who work with children, youth, disabled persons, elders, and other vulnerable adults should receive training on signs of sex abuse, sex abuse prevention, and reporting...

The UUA's resources for Responsible Staffing outline practices for screening and hiring congregational staff, including those who work with children directly. Guidance for Background Checks Employees and volunteers serving in positions involving children and youth, the elderly, vulnerable...

Our Religious Education programs for children and youth entail a high degree of responsibility for the adults working directly and peripherally with the young people....

Efforts to create safer congregations extend beyond the walls of the building and into the realm of online community as well. Visitors are more likely to have “met” your congregation online long before venturing through your doors. A congregation’s online presence and communication strategies...