Safeguarding
Safeguarding is part of our shared Christian mission, ministry and values. We are committed to keeping everyone safe and providing support to those who need it.
Please use the contact details, resources, guidance and helpful information that we offer, which you can find below.
Our Strategy
This is an overview of what we’re commited to improving and developing in the Diocese when it comes to safeguarding and the steps we’re taking to ensure this happens.
Q: What is a PSO and what is their role?
A: The Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) is the key link between the diocese and the parish. The role can be one or more individuals. The key tasks of the PSO are as follows:
- Keep a record of all church activities involving children and vulnerable adults;
- Attend any diocesan safeguarding training offered for PSOs.
- Promote inclusivity within a church community;
- Liaise with incumbents and the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO);
- Report any concerns/allegations against church officers to the DSO;
- Report to the Parochial Church Council (PCC) more than once annually, to ensure safeguarding issues are discussed and reported to the annual Parochial Church meeting. Safeguarding should be discussed at every PCC meeting;
- Keep clear, accurate and up to date records of recruitment, DBS checks and safeguarding training;
- Keep the church leadership informed of good safeguarding practice;
- Promote safeguarding training in the parish;
- Ensure that the ‘Promoting a Safer Church’ poster is clear and easily accessible to everyone, with complete, up to date contact details on it;
- Keep accurate records of any safeguarding concerns that arise, keeping the records confidential, and ensuring that others do the same;
- Be familiar with diocesan safeguarding guidance and ensure that any leaders of activities are fully aware of, and are implementing, this guidance;
- Undertake a regular parish safeguarding self-assessment through the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard.
