Youth work problems

Dear youth work problems,

We want to get older young people involved in leadership roles: how do we do this while protecting them, us and those we work with?

Many churches actively encourage young people to become involved in ministries within the church, and for some that involves a degree of responsibility. This may take several forms: some churches take on gap-year students or employ interns, while others look to nurture and develop their own young people as future leaders - this is particularly the case with those over the age of 16.

CCPAS is often contacted about employing young people, in either paid or voluntary positions. Whenever we are asked, we give very clear advice about safer recruitment. A child is defined as someone under the age of 18. Young people can enter the adult workforce at 16, including those wanting a career with children, though even here there are some restrictions as to the amount of contact they may have with children. We do not recommend that anyone under the age of 16 works with children.

Employing someone interested in youth work means following proper safe recruitment procedures. The potential young leader should complete an application form, have references taken and undertake a criminal records disclosure. It is worth noting that some research indicates that up to a third of sex crimes are committed by juveniles and that the age of criminal responsibility is just ten years old, so any criminal convictions should be picked up by the disclosure check.

CCPAS believes it is also crucial that in whatever role a young leader is given they have a clear job and role description and benefit from good supervision. While important for all roles where someone is working with children, it is absolutely essential when planning to engage someone aged 16-25. A number of specific considerations need to be addressed in this case.

The age difference between the young leader and the people for whom they are responsible may not be that great. For example, a 17 year-old intern working with young people aged 14 to 18 raises issues such as ensuring the intern understands the boundaries they are expected to keep. This would include not engaging in any relationship which could result in a sexual relationship developing.  

It is understandable that young people may be attracted to a young leader and this is sometimes encouraged by parents and other leaders where two young people share a faith and are of a similar age. But where one of the two is in a position of responsibility over the other then this should be actively discouraged. Our experience is that, while it may appear acceptable whilst the relationship is going on, once it ends it may become very problematic, especially if the young leader begins a relationship with another young person in that group. To avoid this, churches and youth organisations should be very explicit about their young leaders’ conduct in these circumstances.

Blurred boundaries may often result, especially if someone is made a young leader having previously been a member of the youth group. As former peers become young people for whom the new leader is now responsible, the relationship inevitably changes dramatically and the consequences of this may sometimes not have been adequately thought through. So if a church has a policy for social media that stipulates that leaders should not have young people as friends on Facebook, does this mean that the new young leader immediately has to defriend all their social media acquaintances? Or that they should stop socialising with their peer group outside church meetings?

The solution often comes down to managing the transition, recognising that in taking on a leadership position it will involve a level of responsibility which brings about accountability of actions. It’s therefore important that this is explained to young leaders clearly and consistently. Churches can help in this regard by:

Having young leaders work only with groups where there is a clear age gap, of five years or more.

Providing both a mentor and good supervision for young leaders, so they help them navigate this issue.

Ensuring that all church leaders understand their roles and those of their young leaders; treating them with dignity and respect at all times.

This is not just an issue for churches. It is also highly relevant for youth organisations, especially those providing holidays or short term activities. Unfortunately we have known instances where young leaders have engaged in what they have considered a holiday romance with someone of a similar age and not understood that, in so doing, they have unfortunately abused their position of trust. It is vital that all leaders receive safeguarding training and that the church’s policies and procedures clearly spell out the expectations and responsibilities of everyone concerned.

Young leaders have a difficult job, are a vital part of the church, and need to be encouraged as much as possible. Recognising the particular relational dynamics involved, and dealing with any issues that may arise within a clear safeguarding context, will help integrate young leaders into your church’s leadership team. If you have any safeguarding issues with any of your young leaders, CCPAS is always here to help. Call us on 0845 120 4550 or go to ccpas.co.uk for more.