Safe Ministry & Child Safety at LCM Churches

At LCM Churches, we are committed to the safety, wellbeing, and flourishing of all who lead and participate in our ministries—particularly children and young people. We follow the Safe Ministry Blueprint outlined by Office of the Director of Safe Ministry and implemented through the Safe Ministry to Children Ordinance 2020 (Diocese of Sydney). For full policies, see below:

• Safe Ministry for Children's Ministry Leaders

• Safe Ministry for Youth Ministry Leaders

• Safe Ministry for Parents and Church Members

• Safe Ministry Blueprint for Leaders of Adult Ministries

• Faithfulness In Service

Key Requirements

Ministry staff and volunteers in roles with regular, direct contact with children or youth must obtain the following before serving:

1. Safe Ministry Check (SMC) - Leaders complete the approved SMC form, which collects information assessed pastorally by the Senior Minister or an Authorised Delegate as part of a broader Safe Ministry Assessment.

2. Safe Ministry Training - Leaders must complete recognised Safe Ministry training (Safe Ministry Essentials) and present the certificate before commencing their role, with refresher training required every 3 years. This equips leaders to serve responsibly and safely.

3. Working With Children Check (WWCC) Leaders must hold a current WWCC clearance as required by NSW legislation. This is a separate legal requirement for all in child-related work (paid or voluntary) and must be verified and kept up to date.

While some volunteering roles may not require all three, we strongly recommend them wherever possible to prioritise safety.

What Is the Safe Ministry Check?

The Safe Ministry Check (SMC) is a structured, pastoral screening process required for staff and volunteers in roles involving regular, direct contact with children and youth. It forms part of the Safe Ministry Assessment to ensure suitability and ongoing support for safe ministry.

How We Implement the SMC

To meet our obligations, we:

• Provide access to approved SMC forms and guide volunteers through the process.

• Ensure each completed SMC is reviewed pastorally by the Senior Minister or Authorised Delegate.

• Maintain secure, confidential records of SMC outcomes, training certificates, and WWCC details in line with best practice.

Why This Matters

These steps are more than compliance, they reflect our commitment to loving, protecting, and nurturing the vulnerable among us.

Support & Questions

For questions about the Safe Ministry Check, training, WWCC, or the process, email office@lcmchurches.org.au.

For official guidelines and resources, visit safeministry.org.au.