undefined undefined Abuse Handbook | Interview Training
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Transcript

Some members have had experiences that make them feel anxious or overwhelmed when they meet with a Church leader.

Seek ways to help them feel calm, safe, and comfortable.

Find out from the member what you can do to help.

It is possible that a member's first declaration of a vulnerable situation will be in an interview setting.

Leaders should work to establish an interview setting that is safe and secure. Simple efforts can have a major impact on a member’s level of comfort during an interview,

especially members who have previously had experiences that resulted in feelings of anxiousness or being overwhelmed.

Consider the following suggestions. When scheduling an interview, plan for plenty of time to avoid feeling rushed.

Let the person know he or she can bring a trusted family member or friend to the interview to offer support if needed.

When the person arrives at the interview, be welcoming, but be aware of invading personal space.

Even culturally appropriate physical contact can make someone feel uncomfortable. Let the member know where you'll be sitting and then invite the person to choose a seat where he or she feels most comfortable.

Having a few seating options already prepared is helpful.

A desk or table between you and the person being interviewed can help you and the member feel safe.

A physical boundary may help create a feeling of safety and protection.

Ask the person if there's anything else you can do to help him or her feel comfortable. If a member shares with you a traumatic situation such as abuse,

the following suggestions may help you offer support. Carefully listen to understand what the person has experienced.

It is important that you do not minimize the person's experiences or tell the person how to feel.

For example, avoid telling someone she or he should have already forgiven another or that

the experience could have been worse.

Acknowledge the individual's faith, trust and courage for talking about what has happened.

If the member is in a vulnerable or unsafe situation or desires help on the path to physical, emotional, and spiritual healing,

offer appropriate support, resources, and services.

If the person raises a situation of abuse,

do all you can to protect children and others against abuse.

See the General Handbook for guidance.

Ensuring that members feel comfortable during an interview helps them feel understood, valued, and loved.

As you earn their trust, you will be able to counsel them, support them in their trials, and help them feel God's love.

Abuse Handbook | Interview Training

Description
Various interview settings between Church leaders and individual members are seen and evaluated for safe, supportive, and secure practices to protect Latter-day Saints who may have suffered abuse.
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