Parish Policy Statement on Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

Every person has a value and dignity, which comes directly from the creation of people in God’s image. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by God’s re-creation of us in Christ. Among other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and therefore to protect them from harm.
We commit ourselves to nurture, protect and safeguard all our members, particularly children, young people and vulnerable adults.
We recognise that safeguarding is the responsibility of the whole church.
We undertake to exercise proper care in the selection, appointment, training and support of those working with children or vulnerable adults.
We will respond without delay to concerns or allegations that a child or vulnerable adult may have been harmed, cooperating fully in any investigation.
We will challenge any abuse of power by anyone in a position of trust.
We will seek to offer pastoral care to anyone who has suffered abuse.
We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision and referral to the proper authorities, to any member of our church community known to have offended against a child, young person or vulnerable adult.

Contacts:
David Hayton, Church Safeguarding Officer. Tel: 020 7201 9999

Our Safeguarding Officer is the first person to speak to if you have any concerns around the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult.
Virginia Craven Children’s Champion. Tel: 020 7201 9999

The Children’s Champion is here to be an advocate for all children in all areas of Parish life, making sure their views are heard and their needs are considered.
Annette Gordon, Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser: Tel: 020 7932 1224
CCPAS 24 hour helpline: 0845 120 4550
Family Lives: 0808 800 222 (Previously Parentline)
Childline: 0800 1111

Safeguarding at St Paul's Knightsbridge