27: Safeguarding LDS Children: The Grassroots Effort in the UK

The Natasha Helfer Podcast

Jane Christie and Sara Delaney played a crucial role (along with many others) in the grassroots movement in the UK to have the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints require background checks of anyone who works with the youth of the Church. Unlike many other religious organizations, the Church has a history of NOT having Background Checks be a part of giving “callings” to folks who work with children and adolescents. This has been a concern many members worldwide have brought to the leader’s attention for decades. The Church has preferred to take an in-house approach to allegations of abuse, guiding bishops and other ecclesiastical leaders to first call the Church’s hotline (which is overseen by attorneys), instead of contacting local authorities. This is a huge win in getting the Church to comply with local governing bodies and their methodology in best protecting children and minors.

Jane Christie hosts the 21st Century Saints podcast and livestream. She joined the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a teenager and throughout her life has served in the Church in Scotland in callings including as Young Women’s President, Relief Society Counsellor, and Youth Sunday School teacher. Jane’s interest in the lived experience of church members along with her caring role for her disabled son has led to her focus on the protection and inclusion of the vulnerable within faith communities.

Sara Elizabeth Delaney has a long-term professional background as Probation Officer and Social Worker working with adult and child victims and perpetrators of harm. Sara is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in England serving in callings throughout her 40+ years of membership. She currently serves as Safeguarding Specialist on her Stake.

Intro ("Fisher's Hornpipe") and outro by Otter Creek

Podcast edited by: Ashley Pacini