Safeguarding

St Paul's Bedford is part of the Diocese of St Alban's in the Church of England whose Archbishops, Bishops, clergy and leaders are absolutely committed safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the church. Safeguarding means the action the church takes to promote a safer culture. We will promote the welfare of children, young people and adults, work to prevent abuse from occurring, seek to protect those at risk of being abused and respond well to those who have been abused. We will take care to identify where a person may present a risk to others and offer support to them whilst taking steps to mitigate such risks.

The Church of England affirms the Whole Church approach to safeguarding. This approach encompasses a commitment to consistent policy and practice across all church bodies, church officers and everyone associated with the church who comes into contact with children, young people and adults has a role to play.

The church will take appropriate steps to maintain a safer environment for all and to practice fully and positively Christ's ministry towards children, young people and adults; to respond sensitively and compassionately to their needs in order to help keep them safe from harm.

Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone here at St Paul's, however Wendy Jones is our designated lead in this area and can be contacted about any safeguarding matter via the church office on 01234 340163. You can also speak with our Vicar, Canon Kevin Goss on 01234 364638 or leave an email at [email protected].

More information on the Church of England's national safeguarding can be found here: www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding/promoting-safer-church-safeguarding. 

More information about safeguarding in the Diocese of St Alban's can be found here: www.stalbans.anglican.org/diocese/safeguarding/