Welcome!
Welcome to the Youthlinc Youth Protection Training Module. All Adult participants must complete this module when participating in any of Youthlinc’s youth programs.
Youthlinc’s mission is to “create lifetime humanitarians.”
A humanitarian is an individual concerned with or seeks to promote human welfare. We can only achieve our mission if we first consider the safety and welfare of all children and youth who participate in any of Youthlinc’s programs.
This Module will walk you through the importance of Youth Protection and safety while participating in Youthlinc programs or other interactions with children and youth in your day to day life.
Disclaimer: This training covers various forms of child abuse and maltreatment. In the event that you have personally experienced abuse or know of someone who has, it is important to realize that this training module may trigger memories and reactions. If needed, please take a break, speak to an understanding loved one, or reach out to a clinician.
Know how to create and maintain a safe space for Youth
Recognize, Respond, and Report the different kinds of abuse likely to be experienced by youth
Know and utilize Youthlinc's barriers of abuse to protect youth
SECTION 1: Youth Protection
What is Youth Protection Training?
Youthlinc’s Youth Protection Module provides training in the Code of Conduct and Reporting obligations while participating in any Youthlinc programs.
By the end of this training, you will be able to:
- Know how to create and maintain a safe space for youth
- Recognize, Respond, and Report the different kinds of abuse youth are likely to experience
- Know and utilize Youthlinc’s Code of Conduct and barriers to abuse to protect all youth
Youthlinc’s programs are developed to be safe spaces for all participants to learn, grow, and develop into lifetime humanitarians. One of our key strategies to achieve this mission is a positive mentoring experience. As a Team Leader, Mentor, Intern, or site supervisor you are a huge part of maintaining a safe space within Youthlinc.
Why is Youth protection important to discuss?
When we have the opportunity to increase the awareness in our communities, we are able to provide a better safety net around children, youth, and young adults. By implementing policies, and encouraging folks who see something to report immediately, to take action, err on the side of caution, and to educate the Youth themselves on everything from good touch to bad touch, to online safety, and the rules with interacting with adults or with peers, we decrease opportunities and incidents of all forms of child abuse.
The first step in preventing child abuse is to understand “What is Child Abuse?” A child is anyone ages 0-17 and abuse is to hurt or harm on purpose.
Types of Abuse:
Abuse or maltreatment of a child comes in many forms.
5 Important Facts:
As you review the following information, keep in mind these 5 important facts regarding abuse and maltreatment of youth:
- Most abuse and maltreatment of children/youth is most likely to occur in their own home by a parent or someone close to the the child (siblings, relatives, neighbors, and peers).
- Children who are abused in one way are often abused in multiple ways.
- Studies show that people who have been previously abused are at a higher risk of abuse by other perpetrators.
- Although this training can’t guarantee the prevention of every incident of abuse, it does play an important role in giving you a better understanding of abuse, how to recognize, respond, and report, as well as limit overall opportunities for abuse.
- Building resilience, the ability to recover from adversity can help children overcome many of life’s challenges, including instances of abuse. Youthlinc’s program requirements and leadership teams play a critical role in developing resilience in youth. Providing positive role models, guidance, support, and a safe space make a positive difference throughout a youth’s life.
Youthlinc's Code of Conduct
YOUTHLINC CODE OF CONDUCT FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS
This code of conduct applies to all activities associated with Youthlinc, including but not limited to local service activities, team meetings, overnight retreats, and during international travel.
I agree to obey and sustain the law of the United States and of the country associated with my Youthlinc Service Year team throughout local and international service. I agree to make honest and complete declarations at customs.
I will respect the property rights of others. This includes refraining from stealing, concealment, damage, or misuse of the property of others.
I am not involved nor will I become involve in drug use, including possession, use, or distribution of any narcotic, dangerous, or illegal drug (as defined by applicable U.S. or UT law), except as prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner. I understand that underage drinking as per U.S. Law (21 years old) is prohibited on a Youthlinc Service Year trip, including in flight and abroad.
I will respect the rights of others during the entire Youthlinc experience, in Utah and internationally. This includes not physically or verbally abusing any person, sexually harassing any person, or engaging in behaviors which endanger the health or safety of myself or others, not obstructing or disrupting the privacy of others, or the performance of Youthlinc activities at the direction of leaders associated with the organization.
I will respect the rules and directions of Youthlinc team leadership and staff. I will stay with the team, and participate in all team activities, unless otherwise directed by the team leadership. No participant will go out alone. Any attempt to do so will be considered willful contempt for the Code of Conduct. If any participants desire to take part in an activity not on the schedule, they will talk to the Team Leader. During any activity, including scheduled or spontaneous activities, participants will be in a group of minimally five people, one of them being an adult Mentor.
I understand that co-ed rooming, unless the adult individuals are in domestic partnership, as well as public displays of intimate affection (e.g., kissing, hand holding, anything other than friendly hugs) are not allowed on Youthlinc Service Year trips. It is my objective in participating in a Youthlinc Service Year to be part of the team and focused on the accomplishment of activities associated with the service experience. Additionally, any intimate relationship is strictly prohibited between team members and/or community members as this puts into peril participant safety and international partnerships.
I will not engage in any activities relating to body modification, including getting a tattoo or a piercing.
I will be respectful in terms of dress code requirements as is culturally appropriate for my local service site and international site. The Youthlinc Team Leader and the international coordinator will inform participants of dress code and all participants are expected to respect those requests.
I will make this opportunity to serve a chance to be present among the people I am serving and create meaningful connections at home and abroad. As such, I will respect the expectations set forth by my Main Service Site supervisor and my Youthlinc Team Leader regarding cell phone use.
I understand that each participant in the Youthlinc team is a representative of the Youthlinc Organization. I will not attempt to further any cause, religious, political, or otherwise which is outside the stated or understood purposes of the Youthlinc Organization. Behaviors which further a cause include the holding of meetings or distribution of materials relating to a religious, political, or other cause.
I understand that a single violation of this Code of Conduct may be grounds for expulsion from the Service Year at any time, locally or internationally. If internationally, I will return home early at my own or my legal guardian’s expense.
I have read and understand this Code of Conduct and agree to abide by all its requirements.
Youthlinc's Barriers of Abuse
- All participants 18 years of age and older must complete and pass a background check.
- Adult mentors will complete this youth protection training
- Mentors and students will roomed separately
- No co-ed rooming, except for adults who are in a domestic partnership
- No illegal drug consumption or distribution
- No illegal alcohol consumption or distribution
- Respect the privacy rights of others, especially in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers, and restroom areas.
- The use of any recording devices in places or situations where privacy is expected is inappropriate. If it occurs, the device must be immediately confiscated to prevent sharing of content. The device should also be provided to law enforcement, if necessary.
- No one-on-one contact. All personal meetings should always take place with the knowledge of and in view of other adults and/or youth
- Hazing is prohibited and may not be a part of any Youthlinc activity
- All forms of bullying are prohibited
- Constructive discipline and restorative justice practices
- Youthlinc incident reports
- Mandatory reporting of child abuse
Madatory reporting of child abuse:
Any person suspecting child abuse is a mandatory reporter.
If you see or suspect a child is being abused, and the child is in immediate danger, stop the abuse, and call 911 or applicable law enforcement.
All persons involved in Youthlinc programs must report any suspicion of child abuse to the Utah Department of Child and Family Services. This includes any good-faith suspicion or belief that a child is or has been physically or sexually abused, physically or emotionally neglected, exposed to any form of violence or threat, or exposed to any form of sexual exploitation including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of sexually exploitative images, online solicitation, enticement, or showing obscene material.
After reporting to DCFS or law enforcement the matter must also be reported to Youthlinc program directors.
Youthlinc requires the following incidents to be reported to Team Leaders, site supervisors, and/or Youthlinc program directors, so appropriate actions may be taken.
- Any threat or use of a weapon
- Any negative behavior associated with race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability (mental or physical)
It is important to know that all states allow immunity from criminal and civil liability for good-faith reporting of suspected abuse, even if it is determined to be unfounded.
How to Report Child Abuse:
If you witness child abuse or maltreatment, and the childs safety is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.
All suspected or witnessed acts of child abuse or maltreatment should be reported to the Utah Department of Child and Family Services. If you suspect child abuse or neglect is occurring,
please call 1-855-323-DCFS (3237).
If you are outside of Utah you may check reporting requirements by state law here.
In addition you can use the SafeUT website or call 833-372-3388. SafeUT is a crisis hotline equipped with professionals to help with any size problem at any time. In addition to reporting abuse, adults, youth, and professionals can use their system to report suspicion of bullying, threats of violence at school, mental health crisis, and other emergencies.
If you are unsure… Remember a child’s behavior may or may not be an indicator of abuse and child abuse can frequently be difficult to identify. Keep in mind what you have observed is often only one piece of the puzzle. When you see concerning behaviors, trust your instincts and report to the team leader, site supervisor, Youthlinc program directors, and/or DCFS.
- Utah Department of Child and Family Services:1-855-323-DCFS (3237)
- SAFEUT: 833-372-3388
- Emergency: 911mergency: 911
SECTION 2: Sexual Abuse
Disclaimer: This training covers various forms of child abuse and maltreatment. In the event that you have personally experienced abuse or know of someone who has, it is important to realize that this training module may trigger memories and reactions. If needed, please take a break, speak to an understanding loved one, or reach out to a clinician.
Each year there are approximately 10,000 victims of child abuse in Utah. Sexual abuse is the most frequently confirmed allegation. In fact, Utah’s rate of 28% is 3 times the national average of 9%. 90% of the time a child will be abused by someone in their circle of trust, not a stranger. The circle of trust can include parents, relatives, child care providers, or anyone the child knows well or sees often. In Utah and nationally, statistics show that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before the age of 18.
Our Objectives are to:
- Define Sexual Abuse
- Identify two types of sexual abuse
- Recognize characteristics of abusers and their targets
- Respond to sexual abuse
- Report sexual abuse
Sexual Abuse is considered a public health crisis by experts and health organizations. The majority of sexual abusers are known to the child and to the parents. While most instances of sexual abuse occur in the home by a relative or trusted adult, sexual abuse also occurs outside the home across organizations in the community. While a majority of abusers are adults, more than a third of sexual abuse is committed by other youth.
In short, sexual abuse can occur in any setting where someone could have access to a child.
Types of Sexual Abusers:
It is difficult to determine, just by physical appearance alone, who may be harmful to children. The behavior and methods of an abuser, however, do provide red flags for other engaged adults to notice.
Grooming
Abusers are masters at sensing and manipulating a specific child’s need for love, attention, and affection. They often escalate the manipulation into physical contact by using progressive invasive touch or employing sexual game play as a method of desensitizing the child.
Identifying Grooming Behavior
For example: an adult may send a text directly to a youth, without including another adult leader.
Question Behaviors
How to Respond to Disclosure about Abuse:
Adults should recognize that talking with children about maltreatment especially sexual abuse, is not comfortable for anyone. Remember that a child’s first disclosure- and your response- may have lasting effects.
How you respond to a youth who discloses sexual abuse to you is important. Let the child know you believe them. That you care. And that you want to help. Finally, remember to report the suspected abuse to the proper authorities.
DO:
- Let the child know you believe him or her
- Show the child you care
- Respond in a calm and supportive manner
- Tell the child it wasn’t his or her fault
- Let the child know you want to help
DON'T:
- Overreact or panic
- Press the child to give details
- Promise you won’t tell anyone
- Shame, Blame, or Minimize their feelings
- Confront the offender
- Conduct your own investigation
Youthlinc Policies:
Youthlinc policy prohibits sexual activity and all forms intimate public displays of affection. Any intimate relationship is strictly prohibited between team members and/or community members.
Supervision, monitoring, and communication by adult leaders prevent the following:
- Youth engaging in any form of sexual activity
- Youth engaging in abusive nonconsensual sexual activity or relationships
- Youth attempting to meet up privately
Common Excuses for NOT Reporting:
People often come up with excuses for not reporting. They may be afraid that they are wrong, or that they might somehow hurt someone by reporting. However, our primary concern is for the welfare of the child. It’s always better to report a possible instance of abuse.
- I’m not sure the youth is telling the truth
- I don’t want to ruin someone’s career or life
- I didn’t know I was a mandated reporter
- No one does anything anyway
- It could make things worse
- I don’t want to get involved or have to testify
- People will find out I reported the abuse
Mandatory reporting of child abuse:
Any person suspecting of child abuse is a mandatory reporter.
If you see or suspect a child is being abused, and the child is in immediate danger, stop the abuse, and call 911 or applicable law enforcement.
All persons involved in Youthlinc programs must report any suspicion of child abuse to the Utah Department of Child and Family Services. This includes any good-faith suspicion or belief that a child is or has been physically or sexually abused, physically or emotionally neglected, exposed to any form of violence or threat, or exposed to any form of sexual exploitation including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of sexually exploitative images, online solicitation, enticement, or showing obscene material.
After reporting to DCFS or law enforcement the matter must also be reported to Youthlinc program directors.
Youthlinc requires the following incidents to be reported to Team Leaders, site supervisors, and/or Youthlinc program directors, so appropriate actions may be taken.
- Any threat or use of a weapon
- Any negative behavior associated with race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability (mental or physical)
It is important to know that all states allow immunity from criminal and civil liability for good-faith reporting of suspected abuse, even if it is determined to be unfounded.
How to Report Child Abuse:
If you witness child abuse or maltreatment, and the childs safety is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.
All suspected or witnessed acts of child abuse or maltreatment should be reported to the Utah Department of Child and Family Services. If you suspect child abuse or neglect is occurring,
please call 1-855-323-DCFS (3237).
If you are outside of Utah you may check reporting requirements by state law here.
In addition you can use the SafeUT website or call 833-372-3388. SafeUT is a crisis hotline equipped with professionals to help with any size problem at any time. In addition to reporting abuse, adults, youth, and professionals can use their system to report suspicion of bullying, threats of violence at school, mental health crisis, and other emergencies.
If you are unsure… Remember a child’s behavior may or may not be an indicator of abuse and child abuse can frequently be difficult to identify. Keep in mind what you have observed is often only one piece of the puzzle. When you see concerning behaviors, trust your instincts and report to the team leader, site supervisor, Youthlinc program directors, and/or DCFS.
- Utah Department of Child and Family Services:1-855-323-DCFS (3237)
- SAFEUT: 833-372-3388
- Emergency: 911mergency: 911
SECTION 3: Bullying
Disclaimer: This training covers various forms of child abuse and maltreatment. In the event that you have personally experienced abuse or know of someone who has, it is important to realize that this training module may trigger memories and reactions. If needed, please take a break, speak to an understanding loved one, or reach out to a clinician.
Objectives:
- Define bullying
- Recognize bullying
- Respond to bullying
- Report bullying
What is Bullying?
Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior by an adult, youth or group that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance that is likely to be repeated. Bullies and those being bullied may have serious, lasting problems. The imbalance of power created by bullying can come from any combination of the factors listed. The harmful effects of bullying are frequently felt by friends and families and can hurt.
The overall health and safety of schools, neighborhoods, and society are damaged by bullying. Bullying happens in various ways, and can be broken down into three categories:
Verbal Bullying
- Teasing
- Name calling
- Inappropriate sexual comments
- Taunting
- Threatening to cause harm
Social Bullying
Physical Bullying
Cyber Bullying
Bullying can have serious and potentially lasting effects. Those who have been bullied often exhibit higher rates of health problems that can include depression and anxiety, sadness, loneliness, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, and loss of interest in social or family activities. They may have decreased academic achievement and school participation, such as missing, skipping, or dropping out of school. Youth may become aggressive or show violent retaliation or have increased thoughts about self-harm.
Sings a child is being bullied:
You may not personally witness acts of bullying, but there can be other signs that a child is being bullied. There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is being bullied or is bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is the first step in stopping bullying:
Signs a child is bullying others:
There are also signs that youth may be bullying others. These include getting into frequent fights, being overly aggressive or blaming others for problems, or youth that require repeated adult supervision or disciplinary action. Be vigilant and pay particular attention to youth exhibiting these behaviors so you can intervene if needed. Research shows that many times, bullies have experienced bullying themselves. By intervening you may help break the cycle of bullying.
Risk factors of Bullying:
As a mentor or leader you can often identify those that might be the targets of bullying. unfortunately, any you can experience bullying. Anything that makes a youth unique can also make them a potential target, including:
- Sexual identity or orientation
- Race, ethnicity or language
- Religion
- Having limited social skills
- Intelligence (high/low)
- Physical condition (overweight/underweight)
- Special health care needs/disabilities
Responding to bullying:
The best way to prevent this type of behavior is to set the example by creating a positive environment. Teach and talk about bullying. Let them know that bullying behavior is wrong and encourage everyone to look out for one another- “to be an upstander, and not a bystander”. Keep in mind that how you respond to bullying is important and can have a lasting impact on the person being bullied and the person doing the bullying.
Do:
- Stay calm
- Stop the behavior
- separate the youth involved
- Make sure everyone is safe
- Meet any medical (physical or mental) health needs
- Summon assistance
- Notify program Leaders
- Identify bystanders and discuss what happened privately
- Be respectful and impartial
Don't:
- Use labels like “victim” or “bully”
- Ignore and assume the behavior will work itself out without adult supervision
- Question or ask bystanders to publicly recount what happened
- Make the youth immediately apologize
How to report bullying:
Most instances of bully go unreported, this happens for a variety of reasons. Youth may be afraid no one will believe them or that they will be seen as weak. They may even blame themselves for the bullying Because of these reasons, and more, your intervention as a leader is critical.
Bullying is a serious issue that requires immediate intervention by adults. In instances where there is a threat of physical harm or serious mental health concerns, immediately report to appropriate law enforcement and Youthlinc program directors.
Bullying can frequently be difficult to identify. Keep in mind that what you observe is often only one piece of the puzzle. If unsure, it is always safest to report it. When you see concerning behaviors, trust your instincts and report to the Team Leader, Site Coordinator, or program Directors.