Preventing Discrimination and Harassment with Training for Church Staff and Volunteers

Actions for preventing discrimination and harassment can’t be overlooked, even in a church environment. An alarming 52% of employees have experienced or witnessed workplace harassment¹ and more than one in five people say they witnessed discrimination in their current workplace.² It is crucial to educate your staff and volunteers on what constitutes harassment and discrimination with thorough and regular training. There should be clear rules that management, staff and volunteers all understand and follow.

Utilize Helpful Training Resources

If your ministry does not have training instated, consider the following resources:

• Seek a risk management company to engage in educational resources or purchase training subscriptions.
• Hire external legal experts, if your organization’s budget allows, to advise your policies and procedures and lead regular training for your staff. If your budget does not allow, consider seeking pro-bono lawyer groups to advise on your policies and procedures and provide training for your staff and volunteers.
• Identify a willing church member with a legal background to own the risk management training for your ministry and stay informed of workers and employee laws.
• Hire a human resources consultant to provide training and workshops on a contract basis.

Provide Documented, Ongoing Training

Harassment and discrimination training isn’t just a one-time event. Ongoing training is needed to cover changing laws, ensure new staff and volunteers receive training and emphasize the importance of the topic. Distribute written policies and let staff and volunteers know where to find the policies, either online or as paper copies. It’s also a good idea to maintain a written record of attendance and designate a contact person to handle questions.

Report Events Promptly

In the unfortunate event of sexual harassment or discrimination, report it to your insurance carrier promptly to file a claim. Your adjuster will then advise you on the next steps.

Is your ministry protected?

Have you evaluated other risks to your ministry? From wind damage to workers’ compensation to religious freedom, GuideStone^® empowers your people and your ministry to stay protected so you can focus on fulfilling your calling. For more information, contact us at InsuranceSolutions@GuideStone.org or (214) 720-2868, Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT and Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice. Readers should use this article as a tool, along with best judgment and any terms or conditions that apply, to determine appropriate policies and procedures for your church’s risk management program.

¹HRAcuity.com/workplace-harassment-and-employee-misconduct-insights

²APA.org/news/press/releases/2023/07/work-mental-health-challenges