SAFEGUARDING
“Every person has a value and dignity which comes directly from the creation of male and female in God’s own image and likeness. Christians see this potential as fulfilled by God’s re- creation of us in Christ. Among other things this implies a duty to value all people as bearing the image of God and therefore to protect them from harm” Diocese of Bristol 2014
The Benefice of St Andrew’s Church, Avonmouth and St Peter’s Church, Lawrence Weston, as part of the Diocese of Bristol is committed to working within the Safeguarding Policy of the Diocese of Bristol and those of the Church of England as a whole.
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We recognise, and work to promote, that fact that it is the responsibility of all members of the Benefice of St Andrew’s and St Peter’s to give paramount importance to the nurture and care of children, young people and vulnerable adults in a safe and secure environment. It is about preventing harm to children and adults wherever possible.
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If you wish to read our local safeguarding policy please download it by clicking here
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If you wish to read our Benefice Domestic Abuse statement please download it by clicking here
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If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advise from one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers or if necessary report the matter to the Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police without delay.
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If you are unable to get through to the Parish safeguarding officers and have concerns about the welfare of the child please phone the NSPCC 24 hour helpline: 0808 800 5000. If you believe that a child is at immediate risk of harm please phone the Police on 999.
Parish Safeguarding Officers
- Judy Helme Tel: 0117 982 9893 (St Andrew’s, Avonmouth)
- Julie Morgan Tel: 0117 982 6885 (St Andrew’s, Avonmouth)
- Martin Horton Tel: 0117 968 1440 (St Peter’s, Lawrence Weston)
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For more information, including what to so in the event of an emergency please visit the Safeguarding Pages on the Diocese of Bristol Website.
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales - Click here to find out more