Independent External Audits for Abuse Prevention - The Reason

Experience and Perspective

With over 30 years of experience working alongside churches and charities across Canada, I’ve had the privilege of reviewing Abuse Prevention Plans and collaborating with boards, volunteers, ministers, and executive directors as they launched, implemented, and maintained their prevention programs.

I’ve also witnessed the serious consequences when protocols are not followed:

• Policies written but never implemented

• Boards assuming compliance without verification

• Organizations facing reputational harm from mishandled or false allegations

• Valid abuse claims that could have been prevented

Understanding External Audits

An external audit is an independent evaluation of a charity’s compliance with its abuse prevention protocols. Conducted by a qualified third party, the goal is to provide an objective assessment of how effectively an organization is putting its policies into practice.

At Safe Haven Auditing, our External Abuse Prevention Audits include:

• A full evaluation of policies, procedures, training, and reporting practices

• Actionable recommendations highlighting strengths, gaps, and next steps

• A review of employment and volunteer screening practices

• Evidence of compliance for boards, donors, and insurance providers

Why Compliance Matters

Abuse Prevention Policies are only effective when they are actively implemented. A policy that sits on a shelf cannot protect anyone—and may even expose your organization to risk.

In some cases, insurance coverage may be invalid without proven compliance, particularly for special liability coverage related to abuse, harassment, or molestation. Annual audit (internal or external) is often required as part of your Abuse Prevention Protocol.

An independent external audit helps ensure your prevention plan is not just written—it’s working. Demonstrating compliance shows that your organization values integrity, accountability, and care for those it serves.

Key Benefits of Compliance

1. Reputation Protection

A single allegation—true or false—can cause lasting damage to your reputation. Unfortunately, retractions are rarely as visible as the initial headlines, leaving doubt in the minds of your community.

2. Risk Management

Compliance helps identify and mitigate risks before they escalate. It also fulfills your Duty of Care—the responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect others from foreseeable harm. Failure to meet this duty can result in negligence and potential injury claims.

3. Operational Efficiency

Consistent adherence to procedures improves processes, strengthens accountability, and ensures volunteers and employees work with clarity and consistency.

Demonstrating Care and Accountability

Independent external audits are more than a compliance exercise—they’re a proactive step toward protecting people, preventing harm, and maintaining trust.

They demonstrate that your organization takes abuse prevention seriously and operates with transparency, responsibility, and compassion.