Safeguarding Policy

PEW Benefice (Prees, Edstaston and Whixall)

Our Benefice is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops' guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer: B.Hodges: 01948 840644.

The Diocese of Lichfield’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA: 01543 221105 or 01543 306147 during office hours or 030 3003 1111 opt2 for weekend and out of hours.

If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police Protecting Vulnerable People (West Mercia Police): 0300 333 3000

and your local authority Children or Adults Services: 0345 678 9021: out of hours: 0345 678 9040

Safeguarding Policy 2024

We have a duty, as Christians, to value all people and to protect them from harm.

As members of the PEW Benefice, and individually as Parishes, we are committed to pastoral care and Christian nurture for ALL to whom we minister.

· We commit ourselves to safeguarding and protecting all people, of any age, helping to ensure their well-being in the life of these churches. Our aim is to establish safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment and where there is a culture of “informed vigilance’ as to potential dangers.

· We commit ourselves to promoting Safe Practice by those held in positions of trust. This will include the use of undertaking a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and Safeguarding training as appropriate.

· We commit ourselves to responding promptly to all Safeguarding concerns or allegations.

· We will care pastorally for victims/ survivors of abuse or other affected persons.

· We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, for those who are the subject of concerns/ allegations of abuse and other effected persons.

· We will challenge any abuse of power, especially by a person in a position of trust.

The Benefice adopts the guidelines of the Church of England and Lichfield Diocese in all areas and will follow relevant legislation, guidance and good practice.

If you have any safeguarding concerns, worries or questions do get in touch with our Safeguarding Officer, Bridget Hodges at [email protected]