Parish Safeguarding Handbook

Product Information

What to do if... Responding to Safeguarding Concerns or Allegations that relate to Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults practice guidance (2018) Videos containing children may be used by the church if consent has been given by their parent or guardian. This needs to be signed consent and should include the places which the photo or video may be used by the church. If permission has not been given, it can be helpful to identify these children by using a simple paper wristband, or by asking them to sit in a photo and video free zone. Practically, seeking permission may need a few extra helpers on the day, working from a safe social distance. Alternatively, prepare ahead by sending out the forms to your church newsletter list to avoid queues on the day.

We will seek to protect those who are at risk of being abused and respond well to those who have been abused. Those appearing in video or photographs will need to have given you their permission. A photo release form can be signed by adults. The form must include all the places that the photo or video may be used by the church. This Parish Handbook aims to further strengthen the Church’s approach to safeguarding by bringing into one place the safeguarding responsibilities for parishes as outlined in the House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance. It has been designed to support the day-to-day work of all parishes in relation to safeguarding and those who have a key role to play with children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable. Government Guidance Coronavirus (COVID-19): support for parents and carers to keep children safe online(2021) Obviously, these Network Meeting are not taking place at present, however we will resume these when able to meet safely.

Parish Safeguarding Handbook

The Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016imposes a legal duty on all authorised clergy, licensed readers and lay workers, churchwardens and PCCs (parochial church councils) to have 'due regard'to safeguarding guidance issued by the House of Bishops on matters relating to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults (this will include both policy and practice guidance). Promoting a Safer Church’ sets out the safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults policy of the Church of England. It has been approved by the House of Bishops and applies to all Church Bodies and Church Officers. Your PCC needs to adopt this every year at the first PCC meeting after your APCM and send a statement confirming this into the Diocesan Safeguarding Team. Parish Safeguarding Handbook Guidance on safer working practice, called Safer Environment and Activities, which provides highly practical advice for parishes, helping them to run their day-to-day activities as safely as possible, was published in November 2019 and can also be found on the Parish Safeguarding Handbook link below.

There is a requirement for each PCC to formally adopt and work to all the House of Bishop’s Safeguarding Policies .

Responding to, assessing and managing concerns or allegations against church officers practice guidance (2017)