Safeguarding
safeguarding at st Michael's
what is safeguarding?
At one time or another we are all vulnerable and may struggle to protect ourselves from harm caused by others. Everyone in the church community has a responsibility to ensure there is a welcome for all people and a responsibility for the safety, well-being and protection of others.
our policy statement
We, at St Michael's are committed to:
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The care, nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with all adults and children. This includes paying due regard to the beliefs and wishes of adults and children both when a safeguarding concern arises and in the development and delivery of church led activities including worship. This includes creating an environment in which people of all faiths and none are respected and where extremist views are not tolerated.
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The safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and adults when they are vulnerable, and
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The establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is a culture of ‘informed vigilance’ as to the dangers of abuse.
You can download and view our complete policy
And our Parish Policy
raising safeguarding concerns
We will respond without delay to every concern raised which suggests that an adult, child or young person may have been harmed, or you think may be at risk in any way, co-operating with the police and local authority in any investigation.
who do i need to contact?
If you have a concern that a child, young person or adult who may be vulnerable has been or may be abused or neglected please take the following steps…
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In an emergency call 999
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Inform the Parish Safeguarding Officer of your concern.
Parish Safeguarding Officer: Ruth Huband
Contact Details: safeguarding.stmichaels@hotmail.com
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Write down what happened if you saw or were told about an incident and hand this record to the Parish Safeguarding Officer.
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In the absence of the Parish Safeguarding Officer and if advice is needed before their return, the following can provide you with advice:
Diocesan Safeguarding team: 0117 906 0100
Churches Child Protection Advisory Service Helpline: 0303 003 11 11
Concerns for children (under 18 years): 01793 466903
8:30am to 4.40pm, Monday to Thursday and 8:30am to 4:00pm Friday.
01793 436699 ‐ Out of hours/Weekends
Or email: swindonmash@swindon.gov.uk
Concerns for an adult (over 18): 01793 463555
8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday.
01793 436699 ‐ Out of hours/Weekends
Or email: adultsafeguarding@swindon.gov.uk
You can download and view more Safeguarding Resources
not sure whether to report a concern?
Please do! It is better to report something that you didn’t need to than to stay quiet about something that turns out to be important.
