"The Parish of High Downs is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults from harm. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO). Our Diocese of Canterbury’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 High Downs Parish Safeguarding Officer, Mark Harlow 07979864000 and/or Email: [email protected]. He will usually be the first person to contact with your concerns. He will be able to deal with the issue appropriately.
Alternatively, you can contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, FIONA COOMBS, Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser 07548 232395, [email protected], or PAUL BRIGHTWELL, Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser 07398 009951, [email protected].

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

Other helpful contact information where you can seek guidance or support if needed.

• National helplines:
NSPCC – 0808 800 5000
Childline – 0800 1111
Stop it Now – 0808 1000 900
NAPAC – 0808 801 0331
Samaritans – 116 123
Family Lives – 0808 800 2222
National Domestic Violence Helpline – 0808 20

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