Safeguarding

Safeguarding Statement: Creating a Safe and Nurturing Community

At St Peter's Church, Bishops Waltham, we are committed to providing a safe and secure environment where everyone, irrespective of age, background, or ability, can experience the love of Christ without fear of harm. Safeguarding is at the heart of our mission, reflecting our dedication to the well-being, protection, and dignity of all individuals within our community.

Our Commitment:

We recognise the importance of safeguarding in upholding the values of compassion, justice, and respect that are integral to our faith. As a church, we are committed to creating and maintaining a safeguarding culture that permeates every aspect of our community life, from worship services to outreach programs. Our commitment extends to:

  1. Comprehensive Policies and Procedures:
  • We have robust safeguarding policies and procedures in place that comply with legal requirements and best practices. These guidelines are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure their effectiveness and relevance.
  1. Training and Awareness:
  • Our leadership, staff, and volunteers undergo comprehensive safeguarding training to recognise signs of abuse, understand proper reporting procedures, and foster a culture of vigilance.
  1. Safer Recruitment Practices:
  • We follow rigorous recruitment practices, including background checks and risk assessments, to ensure that individuals serving in leadership roles or working with vulnerable populations are suitable and committed to the principles of safeguarding.
  1. Open Communication:
  • We encourage open communication within our community. Anyone with concerns about safeguarding matters is invited to speak with our designated safeguarding officers, who are trained to handle such situations with sensitivity and confidentiality.
  1. Collaboration with External Agencies:
  • We actively collaborate with external safeguarding agencies, law enforcement, and other relevant entities to ensure a coordinated and effective response to safeguarding concerns.
  1. Pastoral Care and Support:
  • We are committed to providing pastoral care and support to those who may have experienced harm. Our church community seeks to be a place of healing, understanding, and compassion.
  1. Ongoing Review and Improvement:
  • We continually review and improve our safeguarding practices, incorporating feedback from our community and staying informed about changes in legislation and best practices.

Reporting Concerns:

If you have any concerns about the welfare of an individual or if you yourself have experienced harm, please do not hesitate to contact our designated safeguarding officer or Church Wardens:

Safeguarding Officer: Luke Hawkins

Church Wardens: Liz Webb & Mandy Cawood

Email: stpbm.safeguarding@gmail.com 

In Case of Emergency: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, please contact the Police on 999.

At St Peter's Church, Bishops Waltham, safeguarding is not just a policy but a reflection of our commitment to living out the teachings of Christ in a way that prioritises the safety and well-being of each member of our community. Together, let us create a place where all can experience God's love, grace, and protection.