Gaining consent to use images of children on church websites

In today's digital age, churches have a litany of ways to share their stories, mission, and community life through websites and social media. Churches share photos and videos of events, services, and gatherings to showcase the vibrant life of the congregation, and to invite newcomers into it.

However, when it comes to using images of children, it is important to approach this with the utmost care and respect. Gaining consent before using images of children not only adheres to legal requirements but also demonstrates commitment to nurturing and protecting the families within the church community.

Gaining consent is more than a legal obligation; it is an expression of pastoral care. By seeking permission, we show parents and guardians that we value their role and respect their authority over their children's digital presence.

Steps to Obtain Consent

1. Develop a Clear Policy: Establish a comprehensive policy outlining how the church will use images of children. This policy should be easily accessible to all church members and should detail the procedures for obtaining and documenting consent.
2. Educate Your Congregation: Inform parents and guardians about your image usage policy through multiple channels: during services, in newsletters, and on the church's website. Transparency is key to building trust.
3. Use Consent Forms: Create a consent form that parents and guardians can fill out. This form should clearly state where and how the images will be used, including specific platforms (e.g., church website, social media, print materials). Ensure the form is straightforward and easy to understand.
   Example consent form
4. Respect Preferences: Some parents may be comfortable with their child's image being used in certain contexts but not others. Respect these preferences and keep detailed records of each family's consent level.
5. Secure Storage: Safely store all consent forms and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to them. This protects the privacy of the families and ensures compliance with data protection regulations.
6. Regular Updates: Consent is not a one-time action. Periodically update the consent forms and check in with families to confirm their preferences have not changed. This practice reflects ongoing respect and care. If a parent or guardian wishes to withdraw content, make that process painless and straightforward.
   Example withdrawal of consent form

Practical Tips for Using Images

• Group Photos: When possible, use group photos where individual children are not as easily identifiable. This reduces the risk of privacy concerns and focuses on the communal aspect of church activities.
• Avoid Full Names: Refrain from using full names or any identifying information alongside images of children. This practice adds an additional layer of protection for their privacy.
• Celebrate Anonymously: Consider using images that highlight the church's activities without showing children's faces. Pictures of hands engaged in a craft project, backs turned during a worship service, or feet running in a field can still convey the vibrancy the occasion.

Gaining consent can feel impersonal, overly formal, even adverse to the desired warmth of a church community. But considering that anything posted to a church website is visible across the entire world, it is crucial to give thought to the safety of a church's youngest parishioners.

Children matter, and obtaining consent is one way to show it in your church community.