Protecting vulnerable people from harm and speaking up for their rights is an integral part of our scriptural mandate as Christians. ‘Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.’ (Proverbs 31:8)
Here at St Mary’s, we take safeguarding seriously. I am what’s known as the PSO – the Parish Safeguarding Officer, and it is my role to ensure that we are compliant with the Diocese of Oxford requirements for safeguarding and that we are not complacent or ignorant about the dangers of ignoring safeguarding.
For that reason, we “safely recruit” all the staff and those who lead or help with the work here. They go through a process of obtaining two references, an interview, a DBS criminal record check and online safeguarding training courses.
However, abuse could still happen. So, what can we do to help prevent abuse at St Mary’s?
- We must not be complacent about our systems of safeguarding.
- We shouldn’t be blind to the fact that we all have the capability to hurt others.
- We should have care and awareness of those around us.
Church should be one of the safest places that anyone could go to. We want St Mary’s to be a welcoming and safe place for all ages and stages of life, for all people, and we all have a part to play in that because the care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the church.
If you have any queries or want to discuss anything related to safeguarding then please do contact me via safeguarding@stmarysmaidenhead.org.
Kate Wheatley – Parish Safeguarding Officer