Safeguarding

The District Church Council (DCC) of St Mark’s Downham recognises the need to safeguard the children, young people and adults in our care and guard against the possibility of any form of abuse of children, young people and adults by persons who may be acting in the name of our parish. We take our responsibilities to safeguard everyone who attends our church very seriously and have therefore paid due regard to safeguarding policy and procedure. We therefore resolve that we will comply with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

If you have any safeguarding concerns or for further information, contact the St Mark’s Safeguarding team via [email protected].

Alternatively contact the Diocese of Southwark Safeguarding Team:

Safeguarding referrals / general enquiries: [email protected] / Telephone: 0207 939 9441 (Mon to Fri 9am – 5pm)

For urgent out of hours advice: (Mon to Fri, after 5pm / weekends and bank holidays) please contact 020 3874 6743.

Emergencies: If you suspect you or someone is at risk of immediate harm, phone 999.