‘The Church of England is called to share the good news of God’s salvation through Jesus Christ. The life of our communities and institutions is integral to how we address this task. The good news speaks of welcome for all, with a particular regard for those who are most vulnerable, into a community where the value and dignity of every human being is affirmed and those in positions of responsibility and authority are truly trustworthy. Being faithful to our call to share the gospel therefore compels us to take with the utmost seriousness the challenge of preventing abuse from happening and responding well where it has’.

From ‘Promoting a Safer Church’, The Church of England’s Safeguarding Policy Statement.

For the Diocese of Norwich have a look at:

https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/training/safeguarding

Please contact the Bishop's Adviser for Safeguarding, Sue Brice on 07958 377079 or email [email protected] or Bishop’s Assistant Safeguarding Adviser, Sian Griffiths on 07342 999386 or email: [email protected]

Safeguarding is Everyone's responsibility.

If you have a safeguarding concern about a child or vulnerable adult please contact the safeguarding advisers (contact details listed above) or call the following:

A child or adult in Norfolk 0344 800 8020

A child or adult in Suffolk: 0808 800 4005

Or call the police on 999

Finding support

We understand reporting abuse may be very difficult and distressing to you and it may add to your hurt by our not being able to immediately assist you. Therefore here are the contact details of other agencies that are available to assist either on a 24-hour basis or through specialist helplines and services:

NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are worried about a child.

Child-line: 0800 1111 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are a child or young person and are worried about anything.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 ((lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are experiencing domestic abuse.

Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (open 24 hours). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.

Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 080 8808 8141 ( free phone Monday to Friday 9-5pm)

* A copy of the The Parish Safeguarding Handbook version 2, published October 2018 can be found here