Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults
Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from creation of male and female in God’s
own image and likeness. Christians see this as fulfilled by God’s re-creation of us in Christ. Among other things, this implies a duty to value all people as having the Holy Spirit within them and therefore to protect them from harm.
The parish of St. John’s Haydon Wick is committed to the safeguarding of children, young
people and adults who may be vulnerable.
Brent Maartens is our safeguarding officer
Brent would love to hear from you if you have any concerns whatsoever around any issue of safeguarding. Please feel free to contact Brent, details below.
Reporting concerns
If you have a concern about an individual’s physical, sexual or emotional wellbeing, it is your
responsibility to seek advice and support from your Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) or
Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA).
Any safeguarding concerns or allegation must be immediately reported to the PSO or DSA.
Any safeguarding concerns or allegations about anyone in a Parish role must be
immediately reported to the DSA.
- If you think there is an immediate risk of harm call the Police on 999
- If it isn’t an emergency but you need help fast call the Police on 101
Our safeguarding officer Brent Maartens, brent can be contacted on – 07769 686 266 or by email – safeguardingteam@stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk
We recognise that:
- The welfare of the child, young person or vulnerable adult is paramount.
- Everyone has different levels of vulnerability and each of us may be regarded as vulnerable at some time in our lives.
- All children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable (regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation) have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse which can occur in all families and communities.
- Working in partnership with children, young people, vulnerable adults, and their parents, carers and other agencies is essential in promoting their welfare.
We will develop a culture in our church that:
- Enables a safe and caring community to provide a loving environment where there is a culture of ‘informed vigilance’ as to the dangers of abuse.
- Enables and encourages concerns to be raised and responded to openly and consistently and protects children, young people, and adults who may be vulnerable from actual or potential harm.
- Ensures all people feel welcomed, respected and safe from abuse.
- Values, listens to and respects children, young people, and adults who may be vulnerable, encouraging them to be active contributors to the church community.
- Encourages adults who may be vulnerable to lead as independent a life as possible.
You can view our safeguarding policy here