Special Restrictions for Male Rescue Volunteers

An Anonymous User writes, "The Orange County Rescue Mission has an application packet which individuals can use to apply as volunteers [file is in PDF format.] (View application as HTML.) This packet has some restrictions whereby male volunteers are prohibited from holding female children. Also, male volunteers may not meet with a client when the door is closed without a female present. Notice that these restrictions are specific to the male gender. Likely, it is because abusers are usually men (or are usually thought to be men) that these restrictions exist. Protecting children from abuse is important, but how effective are restrictions like these? (Perhaps they just guard against false accusations.) Or are there better methods that minimize discrimination?" See the Read More section for additional commentary."Notice that even hugging is restricted for those of either gender (only 'side-hugs' are allowed.) This too is likely for reasons of preventing abuse. (If it is impossible to allow hugging by males due to liability, a ban on hugs by any might be more fair than a male-specific ban on hugs. This might be considered with respect to some of the other male-specific restrictions.) It could be considered whether a potential for liability can mean it is better to overdo the restrictions than to not go far enough. A hug by a non-abuser or being held by an individual might provide comfort for a child who is having a difficult time. Is there a way to protect children and provide comfort which is fair to everyone?"

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