SAFEGUARDING AND ABUSE CONCERNS

The Parish of the Upper Skerne takes the safeguarding of children, young people and adults very seriously.

Safeguarding means the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture. This means we will promote the welfare of children, young people and adults. We work to prevent abuse from occurring, seek to protect those that are at risk of being abused and respond well to those that have been abused. We will take care to identify where a person may present a risk to others, and offer support to them whilst taking steps to mitigate such risks.

Reporting Concerns

If you are concerned that a child or vulnerable adult has been harmed or is at risk of harm, do not hesitate to contact our Parish Safeguarding Officer.

Valerie Etherington - ( Parish Safeguarding Officer)


E mail - [email protected]

Phone - 07526 239535

Below are the details for the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser if you would prefer to conatct her for advice and support. If you wish to report an allegation of abuse from the past, or in the present, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your information will be treated appropriately and kept confidential.

Beth Miller – (Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser)

Address: Cuthbert House, Stonebridge, Durham DH1 3RY

Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

Mobile: 07968034075

If you are unable to speak to the Safeguarding Adviser and a child, young person or adult is at immediate risk of harm please call 999.

Complaints about how a safeguarding matter has been dealt with:

If you are not happy about how a safeguarding matter has been dealt with and you cannot resolve the issue or concern with the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser you should, in the first instance, contact the Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Group;

Simon Hackett – (Independent Chair of Safeguarding Advisory Panel)

Address: Cuthbert House, Stonebridge, Durham DH1 3RY

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