St. Matthew's lies at the heart of our village and is part of its very fabric and life. We are a small Christian worshipping congregation with a welcoming heart that wants to work in partnership with our local village community.
The churches of the Saxon Shoreline Benefice are committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. Our benefice comprises the churches in the villages of Aldington, Bilsington, Bonnington, Hamstreet, Kenardington, Orlestone, Snave, Ruckinge and Warehorne.
We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies, and we have our own Benefice Safeguarding Officer (BSO), Mrs Pauline Williams, who can be contacted on 07907 676829 for safeguarding enquiries and assistance. A confidential email address for disclosures and concerns is set up for those purposes only, at [email protected]. This is not an address for general enquiries.
The Diocese of Canterbury’s safeguarding pages (linked below) contain vital links and information, including contact details for the Diocesan Safeguarding Team (DST), who advise our Safeguarding Officer.
If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm, you can also contact the DST. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children’s Social Services (03000 411111) or Adult Services (03000 416161).