Setting boundaries

It’s important to establish and agree on clear boundaries for individuals who may pose a risk to others. These boundaries should define what behaviours are acceptable and unacceptable. Not only do they help protect the wider group, but they also support the individual by providing structure and reducing the likelihood of unfounded allegations. 

Depending on the nature of the risk posed to children or adults with care and support needs, some key boundaries to consider may include prohibiting the individual from: 

• having physical or emotional closeness with children or vulnerable adults, including those living in the same household. 
• sitting near children or known vulnerable adults during group activities, such as church services. 
• attending events held in private homes where children are present, such as church house groups or community support meetings. 
• working directly with children, young people, or adults known to be at risk. 
• holding leadership or responsibility roles that may lead others to view them as trustworthy. 
• participating in activities that imply a position of trust, such as welcoming guests at a food bank, distributing materials, greeting attendees, reading lessons, serving refreshments, or leading prayers. 

It’s also important to set boundaries around online communication and interaction. 

All boundaries should be tailored to the individual’s circumstances and proportionate to the level of assessed risk.