Safe-Guarding Guidelines

"The parish of Melmerby: St John the Baptist is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies who ensure that children and vulnerable people are kept safe, as well as making sure that all our volunteers and those involved in leading services receive regular training.

Contact details for  people and organisations who can be contacted for advice or in an emergency can be found on the attached document. The Diocese of Carlisle’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA).

If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm contact Joanna Van Lachterop - see details below.

If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police or your local authority Children or Adults Services."

The Diocese of Carlisle, safeguarding adviser: Joanna Van Lachterop (Normally works Mon-Fri.)

T: 07458 016884
E: [email protected]

Joanna Van Lachterop works full-time for the diocese. If she is unavailable:

and if you believe a child may be at immediate risk, you must contact Westmorland and Furness Safeguarding Hub using the 24 hour number 0300 373 2724 or the police.

or if the safeguarding issue involves an adult then Westmorland and Furness Council Adult Social Care's contact no. is: 0300 373 3301 or out of hours 01228 526690

More information on suitable people you can contact - including social services and other help agencies - with their phone numbers - is found by clicking on the DOWNLOAD link below. Also you can download a copy of the Church of England keynote 'Promoting a Safer Church' policy approved by its House of Bishops.

If you wish to learn more about safeguarding CLICK HERE to find more information on Church of England guidelines for best safeguarding practice.