St Cuthbert’s Church is committed to protecting the vulnerable amongst our congregation. Below is the safer church poster that summarises the Church of England policy.
We are here to listen if you have any issues or concerns you want to share – we can’t guarantee to keep them confidential, because we may need to pass the information on in order to keep you or others safe. But we will only do so in accordance with our policy and procedures, and you can read more about them below.
You can find our full policy here
Anne Dunning is our Parish Safeguarding officer – to contact her, please email safeguarding@ryepark.com
The Church of England safeguarding policy statement is based on five foundations and offers six overarching policy commitments:
- Gospel: This foundation emphasizes that the Church is called to share the good news of God’s salvation through Jesus Christ, which includes welcoming all, especially the most vulnerable, into a community where the value and dignity of every human being is affirmed. This compels the Church to prevent abuse and respond well where it has occurred.
2. Human Rights and the Law: The Church recognizes the personal dignity and rights of all individuals, as enshrined in human rights legislation and international conventions. Safeguarding work is undertaken within this legal framework, supported by government guidance.
3. Core Principles: These key principles underpin the Church’s approach to safeguarding practice and include:
- The welfare of the child, young person, and vulnerable adult is paramount.
- Integrity, respect, and listening to all.
- Transparency and openness.
- Accountability.
- Collaboration with statutory authorities and other partners.
- Use of professional safeguarding advice and support.
- A commitment to the prevention of abuse.
- The active management of risk.
- Promoting a culture of informed vigilance.
- Regular evaluation to ensure best practice.
4. Good Safeguarding Practice: This foundation focuses on the practical implementation of safeguarding, including safe recruitment, training, clear reporting procedures, and effective information sharing and record keeping.
5. Learning from the Past: The Church acknowledges its past failings in safeguarding and is committed to learning from independent inquiries and reviews (such as IICSA) to continually improve its policies and practices and ensure a safer environment for all.
This Policy Statement is supported by more detailed Practice Guidance and Reference documents which can be found on the St Albans Diocese website.
The Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser is Jeremy Hirst, 01727 818107 or 07867 350886. safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org