Managing Risks & Safeguarding Agreements

Being able to worship is an important support for many people especially those who have offended in the recent or distant past or those who may pose a risk to others. That is why it is important that if you find out information about a person of concern or a person who you find out has a conviction history, that you share it with your Church Safeguarding Coordinator or Synod Safeguarding Officer so that appropriate action can be taken to support all involved. Please note that Safeguarding Agreements should only be developed by the Synod Safeguarding Officer who will involve the necessary parties in the church. You can support by:

• Risk assessing any new activities including online and virtual forums to mitigate against new risks.
• Please ensure that you are considering any possible risks associated with conducting ministry and any activities online, especially in relation to those subject to safeguarding agreements. Always ensure you consult your Synod Safeguarding Officer in relation to establishing and reviewing safeguarding contracts.
• Where restrictions may be required, remain vigilant when using online group meetings to ensure that individuals who should not be participating are not present.
• Ensure that you are up to date on your safeguarding training and that restrictions or actions in place to support others are not mitigated under any circumstances.
• Consider how to continue to offer spiritual support safely.

Please ensure that you are considering any possible risks associated with conducting ministry and any activities online, especially in relation to those subject to safeguarding contracts. Always ensure you consult your Synod Safeguarding Officer in relation to establishing and reviewing safeguarding contracts.

Thirtyone:eight has publicised a free 15 min webinar covering Crisis planning, reviewing pastoral care arrangements, accountability and record keeping, impact of self-isolation, offering practical support, use of online platforms, looking after your team.

https://thirtyoneeight.org/news-and-events/events/covid-training/