Safeguarding

Safeguarding means keeping everyone safe. As a church, we continue to follow the Diocesan Policy and Procedures for safeguarding. (Promoting a safer church) 

We are determined to stay vigilant and ensure that we can stay safe whilst still being welcoming and caring for all who come through our doors.

The Diocesan procedures help us with this. The Diocese provides tools such as DBS checking, Safeguarding Training, model policies and procedures, and a Diocesan safeguarding team to help and advice safeguarding officers when something is reported to them.

All roles within the church have a job description and person specification, references are taken and training provided.  Risk assessments are made for activities and, where they fit the government criteria for DBS checks, these are undertaken.

Depending on the level of responsibility and potential access to children or vulnerable adults, many of the church roles also require that the person undergoes Safeguarding Training.

If you have any concerns or queries please contact:

Alternatively contact a member of the Rochester Diocesan Safeguarding Team:

email: dsasafeguarding@rochester.anglican.org – 01634 560000 and ask for Safeguarding Team

To report an urgent safeguarding concern about a child or vulnerable adult you can contact the Kent Local Authority Safeguarding team on 03000411111 and outside of office hours on 03000419191. If you think a child or vulnerable adult is at immediate danger then you should call 999.

For those who have been abused by someone in the church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, then there is a free and independant support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space. This is Safe Spaces www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk

Helpline 03003031056.