Safeguarding

Our Safeguarding Commitment

Bible International seeks to protect children, youth, and adults from harm, abuse, exploitation, and inappropriate behavior within all Bible study activities, whether online or facilitated through digital platforms.

Safeguarding is not an optional feature of our work—it is an essential part of faithful Christian witness, responsible stewardship, and care for those entrusted to our programs.

These commitments are undertaken in good faith and are intended to reflect widely accepted safeguarding principles. While Bible International seeks to implement reasonable and proportionate safeguards, no policy can eliminate all risk, and participation in programs occurs with this understanding.

Scope of This Policy

This safeguarding policy applies to:

• All mentors, facilitators, and volunteers
• Staff and leadership of Bible International
• Participants in Bible study programs
• Online interactions, communications, and study sessions

All individuals involved in Bible International programs are expected to understand and comply with these safeguarding standards.

Safeguarding Principles

• Respect and dignity: Every participant is treated with respect as a person made in the image of God.
• Appropriate boundaries: Clear boundaries govern interactions between mentors and participants.
• Transparency: Program structures discourage secrecy and encourage accountability.
• Responsibility: All concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
• Prevention: Safeguarding measures are designed to prevent harm before it occurs.

Online Safety and Communication

Because Bible International operates in online environments, we take specific steps to promote digital safety:

• Group-based communication rather than private one-on-one messaging where possible
• Clear expectations for appropriate language and conduct
• Moderation of study sessions and discussion spaces
• Restrictions on sharing personal contact information

Mentor Expectations

Mentors play a critical role in safeguarding. Those serving as mentors are expected to:

• Model respectful, Christ-centered behavior
• Adhere to the Code of Conduct at all times
• Maintain appropriate relational and communication boundaries
• Report safeguarding concerns promptly

Reporting Concerns

Any concern related to safeguarding—including inappropriate behavior, boundary violations, or potential harm—should be reported as soon as possible.

Reports may be submitted confidentially to Bible International leadership through designated reporting channels.

All reports are handled seriously, sensitively, and in accordance with applicable laws and internal procedures.

Review and Improvement

This safeguarding policy is reviewed periodically and updated as needed to reflect best practices, operational changes, and legal requirements.

Bible International is committed to ongoing learning and improvement in safeguarding practices.