Our parish of Dersingham: St Nicholas is committed to safeguarding children, young people, those with vulnerabilities and all adults from harm. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own named Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO).

Our Diocese of Norwich’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor who advises our PSO.

If you are concerned that a child or adult or anyone has been harmed or may be at risk of danger or harm please contact the Parish Safeguarding Officer [Maggie Anderson, email: [email protected], 07876034281] or the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor [01603 882345 / 07958377079 / 07342999386 or at [email protected]

We recognize that domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse, and often takes place behind closed doors, making it difficult to detect.

At St Nicholas church, we are committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse and supporting anyone who may be affected. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please know that you're not alone—and help is available.

We encourage anyone with concerns to speak up. You can contact our parish safeguarding officer or the safeguarding team directly or reach out to one of the specialist support services listed below:-
National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
Leeway Refuge Services – 0300 561 0077 (24/7)
NIDAS – (Norfolk Integrated Domestic Abuse Services) – 0300 561 0555 (9.00am -6.30pm weekdays and 09.00 – 3pm weekends) or text to 07860 063 464 / out of hours 0808 2000 247)
Pandora Project – email – [email protected]
Men’s Advice Line – website – Respect Men’s Advice Line / Tel 0808 801 0327

If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police 999 / 101 and your local authority’s children (0344 800 8020) or adult (0344 800 8020) social care services.

Diocese of Norwich Safeguarding Portal