SafeguardingThe Parish of St John's in Hedge End is committed to promoting an environment that ensures all people attending the church; particularly those who may be seen to be vulnerable are made to feel welcome. It is our aim to make everyone feel respected and have their individual rights upheld at all times regardless of their ethnicity, gender, sexuality, impairment or disability, age, religion or cultural background. They must also feel comfortable enough to use their chosen language or method of communication to voice their thoughts and feel that they are being heard. We at St John's recognise that we must encourage an environment where vulnerable adults and children/young people can pursue their faith journey with encouragement and in safety. All church workers are recruited with care including the use of the Disclosure and Barring Service when legal or appropriate. Workers will receive training and continuing support. We will endeavour to respond to any allegations of mistreatment, abuse, harassment or bullying without delay whether the matter involves the church or not and there will be cooperation with the police and local authorities in any investigation. Sensitive and informed pastoral care will be offered to anyone suffering abuse, including support to make a complaint if so desired. Within the Diocese there is a system in place to report any concerns or worries to the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer however in the first instant St John's has its own Safeguarding Officer, Catherine Lynch who is available to contact on 023 8040 4333 or via email using safeguarding@ Further useful contact numbers are: 0808 2000 247 - National Domestic Violence 24 Hour Freephone Helpline (run in partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge) 0808 800 5000 - NSPCC 24 Hour Helpline 0845 790 9090 - Samaritans 24 Hour Helpline 0330 016 5112 - Stop Domestic Abuse Helpline Additional contacts maybe found in the Parish Safeguarding Handbook, a copy of which is held in the Parish Office. If you are concerned that a child or vulnerable adults welfare is at immediate risk contact the police on 999 |
