Safeguarding is important to us at Holy Rood Church.

We aim to create safe environments, where children and young people are nurtured and protected; and where all people, and especially those who may be vulnerable for any reason, are able to worship and pursue their faith journey with encouragement and in safety.

The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in Church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the Church.

Our Commitments...

• Promoting a safer environment and culture.

• Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children and vulnerable adults.

• Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation.

• Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse or other affected persons.

• Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns/allegations of abuse and other affected persons.

• Responding to those that may pose a present risk.

If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advice from our Safeguarding Advisor or, if necessary, report your concerns to the Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police without delay.

The Holy Rood Church Safeguarding Officer is Heather Latham. Heather is available to speak to if you have any concerns and can be spoken to at church or contacted via email: [email protected]

Alternatively you can contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer – Abbey Clephane – Wilson. Telephone: 0161 828 1451 (Office) or 07436 589606 (Mobile)

The following Helplines can also offer expert advice and guidance…

Family Lives: 0808 800 2222

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247

 Action on Elder Abuse: 080 8808 8141

NSPCC: National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children: 0808 800 5000

Childline: 0800 1111

Stop It Now – for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse: 0808 1000 900

NAPAC: National Association for People Abused in Childhood: 0808 801 0331

Samaritans: 116 123 – This number is free to call and does not appear on phone bills.

If there is an immediate risk or danger contact the police on telephone number 999.

For less urgent concerns contact the police on telephone number 101.

For more information on church safeguarding and further contacts please visit the Diocese of Manchester website.  https://www.manchester.anglican.org/safeguarding