We have a duty of care to all people who are part of our church community regardless of age, ability, status, gender and ethnicity who may be at risk of harm. Everyone connected with the life of St. James’ Church has a role in promoting a safer Church for all.

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The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has adopted the safeguarding policies and procedures of the Church of England. In particular we are committed to:

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1. Promoting a safer environment and culture.

2. Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to
   children, young people and vulnerable adults within the church using the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) and other tools to check their suitability.

3. Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation.

4. Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons.

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

6. 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 Church Safeguarding Officer (CSO) to work with the incumbent and The PCC to implement policy and procedures.
   

• Safely recruit, train and support all those with any responsibility for children, young people and adults to have the confidence and skills to recognise and respond to abuse.
   

• 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 or 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.
   

The PCC of this Church has agreed and adopted the above Policy at its meeting on 20th November 2023.

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