The Vicarage

Lords Mead

Chippenham

Wilts SN140LL

12th November 2024

Dear All,

This Sunday is the Church of England’s designated Safeguarding Sunday. Rather ironic and desperately sad given the current news around CofE, reports, and senior clergy in relation to the mishandling of safeguarding concerns.

To be frank. The institution of the CofE has failed in this area. We are not alone of course. But there are no excuses for ignoring, not addressing, or not proactively working for safe places for all.

The Gospel calls for repentance. This we must do.

Churches MUST BE SAFE spaces for ALL and for ANYONE and EVERYONE.

I have been with you in these churches since Feb 2024 and my experience so far suggests that locally we are part of a safe fellowship and take safeguarding seriously. If you think or experience otherwise or can see improvements that we should consider, please approach your safeguarding lead, me, or another member of your local clergy and/or leadership team.

In Christ

Si

Priest in Charge

St Peter’s Chippenham with Lacock and Bowden Hil