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• Seek to create a ‘listening culture’ and help people develop listening skills to respond appropriately in situations where sensitive information is disclosed
• Inform the Synod Safeguarding Officer as a minimum of any situations where involvement from statutory services is/may be required
• Share information with statutory services as appropriate and co-operate with them during any investigations
• Report any serious safeguarding incident to the Charity Commission and notify the Synod Safeguarding Officer
5. Managing allegations and people who may pose a risk to others
Where allegations are made against individuals within the Church, we are committed to following all required investigative and regulatory procedures. We will work in collaboration with the Synod, wider Church staff, statutory agencies and other relevant organisations.
In line with Chapter 5 of Good Practice 6, we will:
• Co-operate fully with any investigative or disciplinary procedures
• Inform the Synod Safeguarding Officer immediately on becoming aware of anyone in the church who may present a risk to others
• Work with the Synod Safeguarding Officer and contribute relevant information for risk assessments
• Alert the Synod Safeguarding Officer or statutory agencies to known breaches of a safeguarding agreement
6. Supporting victims and survivors
The key principle underpinning our policy and pract ce in this area is that all those who have experienced abuse, whether recently or in the past ‘will be listened to and offered the pastoral care and support they deem appropriate and relevant, irrespec ve of type of abuse, context, or when this occurred’ (General Assembly policy statement 2021).
In line with Chapter 6 of Good Practice 6, we will:
• Recognise that the Elders’ meeting has responsibility for provision of pastoral care
• Be aware of local support services that people can be referred or directed to
• Ensure those in relevant roles attend appropriate training
• Seek advice from the Synod Safeguarding Officer about provision of appropriate support when necessary
7. Key contacts
Church Safeguarding Co-ordinator
Joyce Lightfoot
ijlightfoot15@hotmail.com
0151 932 1036