Safeguarding of Adults and Children
Safeguarding: Your Safety is Our Priority
As a part of the Church of England, we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for everyone, especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We take safeguarding seriously, and our approach is built around respect, care, and the wellbeing of those we serve.
Our safeguarding policy, Promoting a Safer Church (see below), ensures that all necessary steps are taken to protect individuals from harm. But we understand that the path to safety can sometimes feel difficult and overwhelming. If you or someone you know is experiencing harm or is at risk, please know you are not alone. We are here to support you, listen to you, and take action to help.
Contact Information for Safeguarding Support
Our church has a designated safeguarding officer who is available to talk to you, offer support, and ensure your concerns are addressed.
St Mary & St Ethelburga (Lyminge): Gary Colvin – 01303 862360 – [email protected]
Additionally, you can contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer, Fiona Coombs, for further support:
Email: [email protected] Phone: 01227 459401 | Mobile: 07548 232395Finding the Support You Need
We understand that coming forward with concerns about abuse can be deeply distressing. We want to make sure you feel supported throughout this process. There are also several other organizations that can offer immediate help and ongoing support. Here are some key contacts:
Social Services: Report abuse or seek support – www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/report-abuse NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (Available 24/7 – free and confidential support for concerns about a child) Childline: 0800 1111 (Available 24/7 – confidential support for children and young people) National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (Available 24/7 – support if you are experiencing domestic abuse) Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (Available 24/7 – someone to talk to if you are feeling overwhelmed) Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 080 8808 8141 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm – support for older people experiencing abuse) The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC): 0808 801 0331 (Monday to Thursday: 10am – 9pm, Friday: 10am– 6pm Saturday and Sunday: Closed (Supporting recovery from childhood abuse.) Safe Spaces (National Church-Related Abuse Support Service): 0300 303 1056 (Supporting survivors of church-related abuse ) National Safeguarding Team: [email protected] Local Diocesan Safeguarding Team: www.canterburydiocese.org/safeguardingWe Are Here for You
Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. We know that it can be difficult to speak up, but we encourage you to reach out to any of the contacts listed above. Whether you need immediate help or just someone to listen, we are here to support you, no matter what you’ve been through.
We believe in creating a safe space where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. If you have experienced harm or are concerned about someone’s safety, please do not hesitate to contact us. Together, we can ensure that those at risk are protected, and those who need help can find it.
Please see download below for our Safeguarding Policy