SAFE SANCTUARY
Creating Safe Sanctuaries Training Video
NOTE: Youth who want to volunteer with VBS have a separate training video. Those under 18 are not subject to a Background Check.
Becoming Certified in Safe Sanctuaries Training
Reporting Abuse
In Georgia, all volunteers and staff members in ministry with children and youth are mandated reporters of child abuse, as are all clergy. Those "having reasonable cause to believe that a child has been abused shall report or cause reports of that abuse to be made."
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If you believe a child, youth, or vulnerable adult to be in imminent danger call 911.
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You should know your church’s procedures for notifying the appropriate church staff including the Senior Pastor, Church Administrator, Staff Parish Relations Chairperson, and your District Superintendent.
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To report child abuse, contact the Department of Family and Children's Services. Call 1-855-GACHILD.
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For reporting abuse regarding adults, you may contact Georgia Adult Protective Services at aging.georgia.gov or by calling Georgia’s Aging and Disability Network at 1-866-552-4464.
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Click here to read about Georgia's Child Abuse Reporting Statute.