As the people of the Methodist church we are concerned with the wholeness of each individual within God’s purpose for everyone. We seek to safeguard all members of the church community of all ages.
Commitment.
We are committed to:-
the care and nurture of, and respectful pastoral ministry with, all children, young people and adults.
the safeguarding and protection of all children, young people and vulnerable adults.
the establishing of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.
Principles.
We will carefully select and train all those with any responsibility within the Church including DBS disclosures and registration. All office holders and workers with children, young people and vulnerable adults must complete Form A part 1 & 2 and Form X.
We will respond without delay to every complaint made which suggests that a child, young person or vulnerable adult may have been harmed, co-operating with the police and other agencies as necessary.
We will seek to work with anyone who has suffered abuse, developing an appropriate ministry of informed pastoral care.
We will seek to challenge any abuse of power, especially by anyone in a position of trust.
We will seek to offer pastoral care and support, including supervision and referral to the proper authorities, to any member of our church community known to have offended against a child, young person or vulnerable adult.
Specific, practical guidelines will be issued to all workers with children and young people.
In all these commitments we will follow legislation, guidance and recognised good practice taking advice from district and Connexion as appropriate.
Key Concepts and Definitions.
Vulnerable Adults.
Any adult aged 18 or over who, by reason of mental or other disability, age, illness or other situation is permanently or for the time being unable to take care of her or himself or to protect her or himself from significant harm or exploitation.
Safeguarding and protecting children or vulnerable adults from maltreatment
Preventing impairment of their health and ensuring safe and effective care.
Adult/Child Protection.
This is part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. This refers to the activity which is undertaken to protect children and vulnerable adults who are suffering or at risk of suffering significant harm, including neglect.
Abuse and Neglect.
This may occur in a family, in a community and in an institution. It may be perpetrated by a person or persons known to the child or vulnerable adults, or by strangers, by an adult or by a child. It may be an infliction of harm or a failure to prevent harm.
This policy will be given to all users of our premises, and will be reviewed annually by Church Council.