Safeguarding
At The Church of the Ascension, we are committed to keeping people safe.
We work within the safeguarding guidelines of the Diocese of Newcastle and the Church of England, adopting the National Safeguarding Policy Promoting a Safer Church. Our own safeguarding policy can be viewed here. All of our members who work with children / young people or vulnerable adults are required to complete a confidential declaration, have references, a DBS check where appropriate, and attend safeguarding training provided by Newcastle Diocese.
Our Parish 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’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor who advises our PSO.
Reporting abuse and finding supportIf you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or is at risk of harm, do not hesitate to contact us for advice and support.
Within The Church of the Ascension, you may contact our Priest in Charge or Parish Safeguarding Officer:
VICAR - Rev'd Malcolm Hall
T: 07833 497 208
PARISH SAFEGUARDING OFFICER - Leanne Conway-Wilcox
T: 07969 125 975
Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser: Jill Thirlaway
T: 07436220861
Please find below contact details of organisations outside of the church who can help
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Call if you are worried about a child
Call if you are a child or young person and worried about anything
National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247
Phone if you are experiencing domestic abuse
Call if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to
Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 080 8808 8141
For further information please visit Diocese of Newcastle
Please visit The Church of England's National Safeguarding page for more information