Policy statement

The Crossroads Project was set up through the congregation and leaders of Bloomfield Methodist Church who were increasingly concerned by the growing incidence of risk taking behaviours among young people in the community. The Project was initiated in order to create a more caring neighbourhood; help change mindsets; instil self-respect and esteem, and to offer support to those under the dominant influence of drugs, alcohol and young people in particular who are exposed to paramilitary recruitment targeting.

The Management Committee and Staff of the Project are committed to promoting an equal opportunities environment, and to work within the belief systems of the Methodist Church.

Staff and volunteers within the project therefore agree to work within the ethos of the Christian Church observing the policies and procedures as implemented by the Project.  Staff and volunteers must understand that the Project seeks to show and express the love of God for His children, through meeting their practical and social needs

Alongside the Department of Youth & Children’s Work of the Methodist Church in Ireland, the project believes that, ‘as a result of heightened awareness and knowledge about child abuse, specifically child sexual abuse, it is imperative that there are relevant guidelines and procedures for those that work with children and young people. These guidelines and procedures will help protect the children in our care and to protect the innocent adult'.

While recognising that the majority of children and young people in our communities are not abused we must, as Christians, be informed and ready to help children and adults who are in great need…

“Jesus said, Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14, NIV)

We feel that the Staff and Volunteers of the Crossroads Project have a duty and obligation to prevent the abuse of children and young people within their care. They therefore must adhere to the legislation of Northern Ireland and the guidelines of the Project, and act accordingly in any situation that they are presented with.

Please note that where reference is made to the protection of children, we also apply this to young people.