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2. Creating a Safer Culture
We are committed to creating a safer culture in our church which will help us to prevent harm from occurring and provide an environment in which all can flourish.
In line with Chapter 2 of Good Practice 6, we will:
• Appoint a Church Safeguarding Coordinator and ensure contact details are available for anyone to report a concern
• Have a safeguarding policy which is reviewed annually and updated when necessary
• Practice safer recruitment procedures for paid and volunteer roles
• Ensure all those working with children and/or adults at risk are given copies of relevant Codes of Conduct
• Follow the requirements of the training framework
• Comply with legal requirements in respect of data protection
• Complete the Annual Church Safeguarding Return
• Ensure safeguarding is a regular agenda item for church and Elders’ meetings
3. Ensuring Safer Activities
Whilst it is not possible to guard against every eventuality, we are committed to providing as safe an environment as possible for activities on church premises.
In line with Chapter 3 of Good Pract ce 6, we will:
• Ensure appropriate insurance is in place for buildings and activities
• Consider the implications of data protection and health & safety requirements for specific activities
• Carry out risk assessments for relevant activities or events
• Ensure adequate staffing for activities and that leaders have suitable training, are aware of relevant guidance and agree to follow relevant Codes of Conduct
• Ensure the Hirer’s agreement is in place for other organisations using church premises
• Seek advice from the Synod Safeguarding Officer for complex or sensitive risks
4. Recognising and responding to concerns
We acknowledge that, although promoting Safer Culture and Safer Activities will help to protect all those in contact with the church, some concerns will inevitably arise and we are committed to responding well in such circumstances.
In line with Chapter 4 of Good Practice 6, we will:
• Promote awareness of different kinds of abuse, other vulnerabilities and types of safeguarding concern