The parish of St Hilda, Audenshaw is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO).

Our Parish Safeguarding Officer is Mrs Sandra Marston: 0161 900 2029

The Diocese of Manchester’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor who advises our PSO.

If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm, please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Services.

As a church community, we are committed to:

* The care, nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with children and adults

* The safeguarding and protection of all children and adults

* The establishment of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment, where there is a culture of 'informed vigilance' regarding the dangers of abuse which:

For children and young people

* Values them for who they are and nurtures their positive development   

* Enables them to participate fully and contribute to their church community 

* Protects them from actual or potential harm     

For adults who may be vulnerable, including those suffering domestic abuse

* Ensures that all people feel welcomed, respected and safe

* Encourages those who may be vulnerable - to lead as independent a life as possible - to choose how to lead their life and - to be active contributors to the church community

* Protects those who may be vulnerable from actual or potential harm

For all people

* Enables and encourages concerns to be raised and responded to, openly and consistently

* Offers support and care for those suffering, or who have suffered, any form of abuse

* Promotes respect and the value of each person as a child of God

We are therefore committed to best practice according to the national policies and guidelines of the Church of England, in the protection of children and vulnerable people; in the recruitment, training and supervision of all who exercise a pastoral ministry; and in responding to any allegations or complaints.

This policy is reviewed each year by the Parochial Church Council and re-affirmed at the Annual Meeting

Because we understand that:

* God has a special care for those who struggle 

* All of us at different periods of our lives are vulnerable and in need of help

* We can make a difference