Safeguarding Policy Statement
The West of Severn Benefice is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of its ministry and mission, promoting a safer culture and the welfare of every child, young person and adult. In accordance with the Church of England guidance, the Benefice has robust policies, procedures and guidelines in place, to ensure good practice throughout the seven churches.
The churches in the benefice will:
- Promote a safer environment and culture
- Safely recruit and support all those with any responsibility related to children and vulnerable adults within the Church
- Respond promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation
- Care pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons
- Care pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons
- Respond to those that may pose a present risk to others
The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in Church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the church.
If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of abuse, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advice from a Safeguarding Advisor, or if necessary, report the matter to the Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police without delay. Each church has a Parish Safeguarding Officer who you can contact. You will find their contact details within each individual church webpage. We also have a West of Severn Benefice Safeguarding Officer. Contact details are below:
West of Severn Benefice Safeguarding Officer
Mrs Janine Edwards
Tel: 07807 008017
Email: janine.eob@gmail.com
The Rector can also be contacted as below:
Rector of the West of Severn Benefice
Revd Canon John Longuet-Higgins
Tel: 01452 700965
Email: vicar.westof7@gmail.com
Further information about safeguarding arrangements in the Diocese of Gloucester is available at https://www.gloucester.anglican.org/about-us/safeguarding/ This page includes contact details for the Diocesan Safeguarding Team
If there is immediate risk or danger please contact the police on 101