Safeguarding

The Eldership and Leadership Teams of Hope Church and all those affiliated with it, including all Hope Church congregations, undertake to protect and safeguard children under 18 years and those who are above 18 years who have care and support needs at risk of harm, injury or death from any form of abuse or neglect and to respond to concerns appropriately and quickly. The Eldership and Leadership of Hope Church recognise the need to provide a safe and caring environment for everyone without distinction of differences and therefore must take all precautions to prevent abuse and neglect of children and adults in need of care which may occur as a consequence of action or inaction of someone who is older, in a position of power, position of responsibility, trust, authority that results in harm (or risk of harm), injury or death.

In addition to Sunday morning worship meetings, Hope Church undertakes several activities and projects where there is direct and indirect contact with children and adults with support needs e.g. Sunday Children's work, Baby and Toddler groups, café, Pop-In clubs for over-50s and youth groups, Food hub, socials and camps.

This Policy and Procedures is based relevant UK legislation and Good Practice, including Safe and Secure Safeguarding Standards published by Thirtyone:Eight (formally known as CCPAS), which include:

  • Have a clear Safeguarding Policy and Procedure that is applicable to all persons

  • Ensure Safer Recruitment, Management and Regular Supervision

  • Ensure Safequarding Awareness and Training is provided and attendance is mandatory

  • Communicate Effectively and in an age-appropriate, sensitive way for greater accountability

  • Provide pastoral care and manage those who pose a risk

  • Engage with specialised service and partnership working with local authority

In compliance with the Thirtyone:Eight Standards above, the Eldership and Leadership Teams of Hope Church undertake to:

  • Endorse and follow all national and local safeguarding legislation and procedures, in addition to the international UN Conventions where appropriate;

  • Provide on-going safeguarding training for all its staff, volunteers and associates e.g. paid or unpaid workers, volunteers and visitors

  • Regularly reflect on learning from the application of this Policy and revise procedures where appropriate to keep everyone safe;

  • Support the Safeguarding Coordinator(s) in their work and in any action, they may need to take in order to protect children and vulnerable adults from the risk of harm

This policy applies to all representatives of Hope Church at all times in whatever capacity. "Hope Representatives" include those who are Charity Directors, Elders, Leaders, paid or unpaid; providing services as a one-off; part-time or full-time or visiting the church from other churches. They can be based in the UK or anywhere else in the world.

Lead Safeguarding Co-ordinator

Alison Aldridge

alison@hopechurchuk.org
07939235353