Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I screen?
Conducting thorough background screens of potential workers is one of the best
ways to prevent sexual predators from getting involved in your ministry. It also
helps demonstrate that you’ve taken reasonable care to protect your congregation
from danger. Read more >
Who should be screened?
Both volunteers and staff members should be screened, although
the process for screening each group may vary. The level of scrutiny
should increase with a person’s responsibility. Read
more >
What’s involved?
Screening candidates who will be working closely with children
typically involves an application, reference checks, a personal interview,
and a criminal background check. Read more >
Is a check of my state’s sex offender registry enough?
Checking your state’s sex offender registry is a quick way
to determine if more extensive background checks are warranted.
However, it doesn’t provide a complete criminal history,
since the results are limited to sex-related convictions in a single
state. In addition, not all states release sex offender information.
Therefore, results of this search should complement criminal history
checks performed in the applicant’s previous counties or
states of residence.
Do I need written permission?
When employers obtain information about an employee, job applicant,
or volunteer from an outside agency, they must first obtain a person’s
written consent. The Fair Credit Reporting Act outlines the procedure
employers must follow to maintain a compliant screening process.
To learn more, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site.
Can I obtain driving records?
Yes. Most screening services provide this option. The service's customer service representatives will explain
the process and send you the necessary forms. You should be able to order driving records independently
of other screening options.
How can I find additional resources?
Reducing the Risk Kit. Brotherhood Mutual also offers the Reducing the Risk Kit, 3rd Edition, an excellent resource to help your church reduce the risk of sexual abuse. Published by Christianity Today International, this kit provides a turnkey solution to training and implementing a child sex abuse prevention program.
Guidelines for Ministry Workers. This sample
policy manual includes screening forms for workers with children
and youth, response forms for personal references, and reporting
forms to be filled out if someone is injured during an activity
on your premises or sponsored by your ministry.
View and print the complete manual (PDF 106k) for free.
