"Our parish of Westbury is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults from harm. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Benefice Safeguarding Officer (PSO): Mrs Sam Churms who can be contacted on [email protected] or the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer Mrs Lisa Anderson:
07999 028076 email [email protected] either will respond without delay to every complaint and will cooperate with the police, local authority and diocese in any investigation made which suggests that an adult, child or young person may have been harmed.
We will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone who is in a position of trust.
We will always follow current legislation, guidance and recognised best practice.
We will also follow the general policy guidance of the Church of England, which is based on the following six over-arching policy commitments:
1. Promote a safer environment and culture
2. Safely recruiting and support all those with any responsibility related to children, young people and vulnerable adults within the Church
3. Respond promptly to every Safeguarding concern or allegation
4. Care pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons
5. Care pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons
6. Respond to those who may pose a present risk to others.

St Mary’s Church, Westbury PCC (Parochial Church Council) foundation values include a commitment to:
The Gospel,
Human Rights and the Law
Good Safeguarding practice and learning from the past

If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority’s children or adult social care services."

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