We are truly grateful to the grant-giving bodies awarding grants to allow us to complete the works on re- routing the south side drains into the mains drains in the public highway, following the failure of an ancient soakaway. At the same time we have altered levels at the main entrance to improve disability access. The quotation for the works seemed daunting at almost £52,000 so any financial help was welcomed. However, the work has now been completed and we look forward to improved drainage, which should reduce moisture levels inside the church. The improved access with a newly- laid front path has been welcomed by all, worshippers and visitors alike. The good news is that the full excavations planned were not required, and more of the work could be achieved mechanically than at first thought possible, lowering the final costs to £33,440. This has been one of the first steps in developing our 'Pilgrim Project' - a plan to make our church a more welcoming place for all by addressing the outstanding repairs and carrying out some minor re-ordering. We feel greatly encouraged.
Parish Safeguarding Policy The Parish of St Helen, Skipwith SAFEGUARDING POLICY – PROMOTING A SAFER CHURCH The following policy was agreed at the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting held on 24/05/22 In accordance with the Church of England Safeguarding our church is committed to: · Promoting a safer environment and culture. · Safely recruiting and supporting all those with any responsibility related to children, young people and vulnerable adults within the church. · Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation. · Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons. · Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons. · Responding to those that may pose a present risk to others. The Parish will: Create a safe and caring place for all. » Have a named Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) to work with the incumbent and the PCC to implement policy and procedures. » Safely recruit, train and support all those with any responsibility for children, young people and adults to have the confidence and skills to recognise and respond to abuse. · Ensure that there is appropriate insurance cover for all activities involving children and adults undertaken in the name of the parish. · Display in church premises and on the Parish website the details of who to contact if there are safeguarding concerns or support needs. · Listen to and take seriously all those who disclose abuse. · Take steps to protect children and adults when a safeguarding concern of any kind arises, following House of Bishops guidance, including notifying the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSA) and statutory agencies immediately. · Offer support to victims/survivors of abuse regardless of the type of abuse, when or where it occurred. · Care for and monitor any member of the church community who may pose a risk to children and adults whilst maintaining appropriate confidentiality and the safety of all parties. · Ensure that health and safety policy, procedures and risk assessments are in place and that these are reviewed annually. · Review the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Practices at least annually. Each person who works within this church community will agree to abide by this policy and the guidelines established by this church. This church appoints Mrs Lydia Rogers as the Parish Safeguarding Officer Incumbent Revd David Rogers……… …………… Churchwarden ..Mrs Mary Ellwood……. Date: 24th May 2022
