Safeguarding

The PCC of St Cuthbert's, Dufton have adopted the House of Bishops Safeguarding Policy, a copy of which is displayed in the church. Safeguarding is discussed at all PCC meetings and any issues reported to the PCC and Annual meetings by the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Promoting a Safer Church

The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in Church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the Church. All people are precious in the sight of God. We have a responsibility to care for one another and to keep people safe from harm. This is a principle that is recognised both from the viewpoint of faith and also in the context of law.

Our Commitments

Promoting a safer environment and culture

Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children and vulnerable adults

Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation

Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse or other affected persons

Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns/allegations of abuse and other affected persons

Responding to those that may pose a present risk

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advice from a Safeguarding Adviser or if necessary, report the matter to the Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police without delay.

Local contacts available to speak to if you have any concerns:

Name: Dr Andrew Brittlebank Role: Benefice Safeguarding Officer

Tel: 07740224324 Email: [email protected]

Name: Joanna Van Lachterop : Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser

Tel: 07458016884 Email: [email protected]

Joanna’s working days are Monday to Friday.

Out of Hours Support:

If Joanna is unavailable and you are concerned that an adult is being abused, or at risk, you should report it by contacting Adult Social Care, Cumberland Council. Emergency Out of Hours - 01228 526690

If you are concerned about a child or young person, please contact:

· Cumberland Safeguarding Hub on 0333 240 1727 (if it relates to a concern in the Allerdale, Carlisle or Copeland area) or,

· Westmorland and Furness Safeguarding Hub on 0300 373 2724 (if it relates to a concern in the Barrow, Eden or South Lakeland area).

If you believe that a child or adult is in immediate danger or requires medical attention, call the emergency services on 999.

Helplines:

· NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are worried about a child and need advice or guidance on what to do.

· 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 Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are experiencing domestic abuse or need help to report.

· 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: 0808 808 8141 (free phone Monday to Friday 9-5pm)

· Victim Support Cumbria: 0300 303 0157. Emotional and practical advice to help people affected by crime in Cumbria.