Classic Program: Starter Facilitator Handbook for Healing Groups

The facilitator will also maintain confidentiality. There are certain situations, however, where it may be necessary for a facilitator to share information with others: 1. Abuse of a child. If, during the course of a healing group, a facilitator learns that a minor is being sexually or physically abused, he or she must report it immediately to the proper authorities (police, child abuse hotline) and later to the church or ministry leaders, if appropriate. In many places failure to report can result in legal consequences. Reporting requirements vary, so it is important for facilitators to learn the requirements in their area (in the U.S., see childwelfare.gov for information on federal and state guidelines). The motivation for reporting is not simply to avoid legal consequences. The protection of those who are vulnerable, especially children, is at the heart of the Christian faith (Matt 18:6; Prov 31:8; Ps 82:3–4; Deut 24:17; Jas 1:27). Christians are to speak up for those who are being abused and to seek justice, not just do the legal minimum. Reporting abuse against children is always the best thing for the church and for victims, even if it seems to hurt more at first. If your church or ministry does not already have abuse prevention and reporting procedures, seek local expert help to craft such procedures. 2. Abuse of elders and people with disabilities. While reporting this kind of abuse to authorities is not required by law for a facilitator (in contrast to reporting child abuse), it is encouraged. (In the U.S., contact the National Adult Protective Services Association.) 3. Abuse of an adult. Facilitators are not required by law to report physical or sexual violence against an adult, and doing so could in fact harm the victim. Reporting must never be done without the victim’s permission and should never be coerced. All decisions should be for the purpose of safety and include the victim in the planning whenever possible. 4. Suicide. Facilitators and people who are not mental health professionals are not required by law to report suicidal people. However, they should consider safety measures (see Lesson 6B) and calling the police. (In the U.S., see the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.) 5. Homicide. If a facilitator learns of a participant’s intent to harm another person, the facilitator is at liberty to warn the intended victim and should strongly consider notifying the police.

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Classic Program Facilitator Handbook