Safeguarding

Every child and every vulnerable adult who comes to our church should be safe, respected and cared for. This policy explains how we protect them, and what to do if you are worried about someone.

1. 1. Who this policy covers

   It applies to everyone who serves in our church, paid or voluntary: pastors, ministry leaders, children’s and youth workers, and anyone else who works with children (under 18) or with adults who may be vulnerable because of illness, disability, age or their circumstances.

2. 2. Trusted, prepared volunteers

   Everyone who works with children or vulnerable adults is known to the church, has been attending regularly for some time, and is approved by the church leadership. Before serving, they agree to follow this policy. They receive basic guidance on keeping people safe.

3. 3. Caring for children

   • A parent or guardian signs each child in, and we only hand a child back to that parent or guardian, or to someone they have named.
   • At least two trusted adults are always with the children, and no adult is alone with a child out of sight of others.
   • Rooms are open and visible, exits and first aid are at hand, and we note each child’s allergies and medical needs at sign-in.
   • We treat every child with respect. Physical contact is only what is appropriate and in public view.
   • We do not take or share photos of children without their parents’ consent.
   • Leaders do not contact children privately online; messages to young people go through their parents or a group that leaders share.

4. 4. Caring for vulnerable adults

   We treat every adult with dignity and respect their choices. Pastoral visits and counselling take place where others are nearby or with a second person present, and we never take advantage of anyone’s trust, money or circumstances.

5. 5. If you are worried about someone

   Take every concern seriously, however small. Listen calmly, do not promise to keep it secret, write down what you saw or heard, and tell our Resident Pastor, Pastor Damola Onifade, the same day: pastor@gfsmtog.org, +49 175 530 2999. If the concern is about the Resident Pastor, contact the General Overseer’s office through info@gfsmtog.org.

   We will act on every concern, involve the right authorities when needed, and protect the person at risk. Anyone who raises a concern in good faith will be supported.

   If someone is in immediate danger, call the police on 110. In Berlin, the child protection emergency line (Berliner Notdienst Kinderschutz) is available day and night on 030 61 00 66.

6. 6. Review

   The church leadership reviews this policy every year, and whenever something happens that shows it needs to change.

Last updated: November 2026