The people below can be contacted by anyone who has a safeguarding concern, or who requires further support. The Rector (Sarah Richardson 07734 815 929) can also be contacted. If there is an immediate risk of harm, please call 999. Contact details of the safeguarding leads at our church are also displayed on the church noticeboard, along with other information about places to seek help.

The number for Local Authority Social Services (Hertfordshire) is 0300 123 4043 (for concerns about children) and 0300 123 4042 (for concerns about adults).

Our Parish Safeguarding Officers are Pam Blackburn (01462 790536) (Clothall, Wallington and Weston) and Margaret Auld (01763 288377) (Rushden and Sandon).

St Albans Diocese Safeguarding Team can be contacted on 01727 818 107 or 01727 818 104 or [email protected]. Their website is clickable below:

More information on the Church of England’s National Safeguarding can be found here: The Church of England – Safeguarding

More information about Safeguarding in the Diocese of St. Albans can be found here: The Diocese of St Albans – Safeguarding

The parishes of Clothall, Rushden, Sandon, Wallington and Weston are committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer(s), PSOs. The Diocese of St.Albans safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Services.

Safeguarding means the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture. This means we will promote the welfare of children, young people and adults, work to prevent abuse from occurring, seek to protect those that are at risk of being abused and respond well to those that have been abused. We will take care to identify where a person may present a risk to others, and offer support to them whilst taking steps to mitigate such risks.

The Church of England affirms the ‘Whole Church’ approach to safeguarding. This approach encompasses a commitment to consistent policy and practice across all Church bodies, Church Officers and that everyone associated with the Church, who comes into contact with children, young people and adults, has a role to play. The Church will take appropriate steps to maintain a safer environment for all and to practise fully and positively Christ’s ministry towards children, young people and adults; to respond sensitively and compassionately to their needs in order to help keep them safe from harm.

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