“We believe in inclusive church – a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate.
We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality.
We believe in a Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ.”
Parish Practice
Together with the Church of England, SS Peter and Paul, Leybourne is committed to the care and nurture of all within our church community.
We have adopted the House of Bishops Promoting a Safer Church Policy, Safeguarding Policy Statement, which is displayed prominently in the church and can be viewed at the link below.
The Policy was reviewed by the Parochial Church Council at its meeting on 23 April 2023 and has been re-adopted as best practice.
All members of the Parochial Church Council, Children’s Church leaders and helpers have undertaken appropriate Safeguarding training. Those in contact roles are also subject to checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
If you are concerned about something you have experienced in a church, now or in the past, or you are worried about another person - perhaps a vulnerable adult or a child – there are people you can talk to, and you will be taken seriously.
You can contact the Diocese of Rochester’s Safeguarding team on 01634 560 000 or visit their Webpage at: www.rochester.anglican.org/safeguarding/
Recognising that this may not feel safe for those with a lived experience of abuse from within the church, a dedicated telephone helpline, operated independently from the church, by the NSPCC, is available. Calls can be made free on 0800 80 20 20
There is now a Single Point of Contact for Safeguarding of Children and Vulnerable Adults within the Parish.
You may contact Kirstie De-MACHEN by calling 07817 293053