PARISH SAFEGUARDING POLICY

The Parish of High Spen and Rowlands Gill, Churches of St Patrick and St Barnabas,

 Safeguarding Policy - Promoting a Safer church 

The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting held on 13th March 2019

In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding Policy our church is committed to: 

*  promoting a safer environment and culture 

*  safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children, young people and vulnerable            adults within the church  

*  responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation

*  caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons

*   caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons

 *  responding to those that may pose a present risk to others

The Parish will:

* create a safe and caring place for all

* have a named Parish Safeguarding Officer (SGO) to work with the incumbent and the PCC to implement policy and           procedures  

*  ensure that there is appropriate insurance cover for all activities involving children and adults undertaken in the                name of the parish

*  display in church premises and on the parish website the details of who to contact if there are safeguarding concerns      or support needs  

*  listen to and take seriously all those who disclose abuse

*  take steps to protect children and adults when a safeguarding concern of any kind arises, following House of                      Bishops guidance, including notifying the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSA) and statutory agencies immediately

*  offer support to victims/survivors of abuse regardless of the type of abuse, when and where it occurred 

*  care for and monitor any member of the church community who may pose a risk to children and adults whilst                   maintaining appropriate confidentiality and the safety of all parties 

*  ensure that health and safety policy, procedures and risk assessments are in place and that these are reviewed                 annually  

*  review the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Practices at least annually.

 Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church.

This church appoints Linda Matthews as the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Signed Revd Diane Ryan (no churchwardens appointed)   21st September 2023