TEENS ON TEAM

SPECIFICS FOR WORKING WITH AT RISK ADULTS

• Many of the points above in the Specifics for Working with Children and Young People can be applicable for at-risk adults so please familiarise yourself with these also.

• Include at-risk adults in decisions that involve them within the bounds of the ministry offered.  It is important for at-risk adults to feel they have a part in choosing their actions in their day-to-day lives. 

• As a church we have systems in place to help people out financially so we would ask that volunteers don't hand out personal cash without speaking to the Transform Team first.

• Be aware of flirtatious behaviour and avoid behaving in this manner yourself or participating with others in this behaviour.  If you do recognise this behaviour towards you, subtly pass that person on to another team member.

• Be meticulous in following any pertinent training you've been given regarding those who have particularly chaotic lifestyles and any extra safety measures identified.

WHAT VOLUNTEERS CAN EXPECT FROM SITE MINISTRY TEAM LEADERS

It is the responsibility of Site Ministry Team Leaders to consider the welfare of all in their teams by way of making contact with each individual as appropriate.  Team Leaders may have some involvement with rotas, equipment, recruitment, training and generally updating and supporting their teams.  They'll also support teams at the time of duty, helping to ensure areas are safe and well-lit and that there are adequate resources.  All Site Ministry Team Leaders should promote and model a healthy safeguarding culture.  These Team Leader responsibilities are initiated, overseen and supported by the staff team and Pastors for each Ministry.

ACTION IF AN ALLEGATION IS MADE AGAINST A VOLUNTEER

If an allegation or serious concern is raised about any PVGd team member, the safest action for us to take is to suspend that volunteer from all PVG team duties pending the outcome of the investigation (usually around 3 months).  We will always aim to conclude any investigations quickly and thoroughly, and return volunteers to their teams as soon as possible if appropriate.  We won't do this until we're sure that our vulnerable people have not been harmed and/or that the team member will not repeat actions that may have put themselves or others at risk of accusation.

An allegation or serious concern will include an accusation of a child/adult protection nature.   Alternatively, it could involve a serious failure to follow our Good Practice in Teams guidance.  If it is a serious failure to follow Good Practice, then the guidelines within the Catalyst Vineyard Church Grievance and Disciplinary Policy will be followed.

We will always offer pastoral support to all involved in these circumstances to pray through the emotions you will be encountering.