The Presbytery of Philadelphia: Child Abuse Protection Policy

Leadership in the church demands the highest standards of moral integrity and personal responsibility. It is a gift of the Spirit that can only be effectively exercised in an environment of trust. As the Gospel witness makes abundantly clear, “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded” (Luke 12:48).

Click here for the January 2020 Child Abuse Protection Policy

The State of Pennsylvania Child Protection Links and Policies:

Summary of Requirements New PA Child Protection Policy

Extensive Background Checks: Effective December 31, 2014, Pennsylvania law states that all Pennsylvania employers are required to obtain, for all employees and volunteers 14 years-old and older working in direct contact with children and/or youth, extensive Criminal Background checks both before hire and every 5 years after that. The following steps are required for compliance:

Criminal History Record obtained from the PA State Police

Complete Online: https://epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp

Child Welfare Portal: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home

Online training can be done at either https://pafsa.org/on-demand-online-training/ OR additional approved providers can be found here: https://www.dhs.pa.gov/KeepKidsSafe/Documents/2023-02-02_Approved-Providers.pdf

If you experience any difficulties with this training, please email us at training@pafsa.org for assistance.

Helpful Information for Volunteers: Volunteer Information

Additional Information: For more information, the Frequently Asked Questions on Keep Kids Safe PA can be helpful. https://keepkidssafe.pa.gov/