‘You are here to defend the defenceless, to make sure that the underdog gets a fair break; Your job is to stand up for the powerless, and prosecute all those who exploit them  Psalm 82 v 3 – 4’ 

Safeguarding means having a culture of vigilance where everyone knows their responsibilities and acts accordingly, and everyone is aware of what they can expect and what to do if they have concerns. Safeguarding ensures that people can prosper, work safely and also protects children and young people and adults at risk.

The Synod Safeguarding Officer is Belinda Nielsen who  oversees safeguarding both children and young people and adults. Belinda is available to help with concerns and queries so please do get in touch.

Key Safeguarding Priorities.

• Respond to incidents and allegations effectively
• Seek support from the Synod Safeguarding Officer
• Create a safe environment within Church
• Ensure that Safeguarding Policy and Practices are in place
• Ensure that every Church appoints a Safeguarding Coordinator for children and adults at risk.
• Ensure that Safer Recruitment practices are followed including Job descriptions, Interviews and DBS checking.
• Elders and Trustees awareness of their requirements to safeguard.

Out of Hours Support- Thirtyoneeight 24 hour helpline If the Synod Safeguarding Officer is unavailable and you need advice urgently, please contact the Churches Child Protection Advisory Service (Thirtyoneeight) who run a 24 hour helpline Tel: 0303 003 1111. Please note that  during out of office hours times, this helpline should only be used when a decision needs to be made about a safeguarding case which cannot wait until the next day.

In an emergency (especially if someone is in immediate danger of harm) you should always call 999 and ask for the police.