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Safeguarding Policy

Emmanuel Evangelical Church

Safeguarding Policy

April  2015

Last Reviewed May 2022

Date for review: Nov 2022

Christian Safeguarding Services Tel 07960 751778 Paul & Sue Harrison
Contents

Section 1

Details of place of worship / organisation .............................................................................. 3

Our Commitment ................................................................................................................... 4

Section 2

Recognising and responding appropriately to an allegation or suspicion of abuse ... 5

Section 3 – Prevention

Recruitment of workers ............................................................................................ 11

Occasional helpers .................................................................................................. 11

Management of workers .......................................................................................... 12

Section 4 – Pastoral Care

Supporting those affected by abuse ........................................................................ 13

Working with offenders ............................................................................................ 13

Section 5 – Practice Guidelines ........................................................................... 14

Risk assessments; First aid; Registers and Records; Supervision; Overnight stays; Transport; Communication and social media; Further points about conduct of workers; Parental responsibility; Complaints; Working in partnership

Appendices ............................................................................................................ 20

  1. Leadership safeguarding statement

  2. List of activities

  3. Policy on recruitment of ex-offenders

  4. Policy on storage etc of disclosure information

  5. Statutory definitions of abuse

  6. Signs of possible abuse

  7. Effective listening

  8. Checklist for safeguarding audit

  9. Membership consent form

 

 

 

 

 

The Safeguarding Policy

Section 1

Details of the place of worship / organisation

Name of Place of Worship / Organisation: Emmanuel Evangelical Church

 

Address:          Chell Heath Road

                        Bradeley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 7NN              

 

Church Tel No and Answering Machine:       01782-911022

 

Contact email address:  info@emmanuelchurchbradeley.co.uk

 

Membership of Denomination/Organisation: FIEC

 

Charity Status Number:  XN 81187 

 

Insurance Company:  Congregational & General Insurance plc (policy includes public and products liability and employers liability) Tel 01274-700700 Church Section. Policy No RC01003181

 

The following is a brief description of our place of worship / organisation and the type of activities we undertake with children:

We are an evangelical church which runs a variety of activities for children and young people including babies and toddlers. Some of these take place in our church building, while others might happen off-site and involve transport via car. A full list of current meetings can be found in an appendix at the end of this document.

We currently employ one full time employee. All other workers are volunteers.

 

This policy,

This policy has been adapted from their template of CCPAS, in order to meet their copyright conditions. The policy should not be placed on any website.

 

 

Our commitment

 

As a Leadership we recognise the need to provide a safe and caring environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults.  We acknowledge that children, young people and vulnerable adults can be the victims of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect.  We believe that all people attending our church should be treated fairly and lovingly, regardless of race, colour, sex, language, religion, beliefs, national or social origin, or social class.  We also concur with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child where it states that children should be able to develop their full potential, free from hunger and want, neglect and abuse.   They have a right to be protected from “all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s), or any other person who has care of the child.”  As a Leadership we have adopted the procedures set out in this safeguarding policy in accordance with statutory guidance.

 

The policy and attached practice guidelines are based significantly on the ten Safe and Secure safeguarding standards published by the Churches' Child Protection Advisory Service (CCPAS).

 

The Leadership undertakes to:

  • endorse and follow all national and local safeguarding legislation and procedures.

  • provide on-going safeguarding training for all its workers and will regularly review the operational guidelines attached.

  • ensure that the premises meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and all other relevant legislation, and that it is welcoming and inclusive.

  • 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.

  • The Leadership agrees not to allow the document to be copied by other organisations. 

 

 

Section 2

Recognising and responding appropriately to an allegation or suspicion of abuse

 

Understanding abuse and neglect

 

Defining child abuse or abuse against a vulnerable adult is a difficult and complex issue. A person may abuse by inflicting harm, or failing to prevent harm. Children and adults in need of protection may be abused within a family, an institution or a community setting. Very often the abuser is known or in a trusted relationship with the child or vulnerable adult.

 

We have as our starting point as a definition of abuse, Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and which states:

1. Parties shall take all appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect the child from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s) or any other person who has the care of the child.

2. Such protective measures should, as appropriate, include effective procedures for the establishment of social programmes to provide necessary support for the child and for those who have the care of the child, as well as for other forms of prevention and for identification, reporting, referral, investigation, treatment and follow-up of instances of child maltreatment described heretofore, and, as appropriate, for judicial involvement.

Also for adults the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights with particular reference to Article 5 which states:

No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

 

Detailed definitions, and signs and symptoms of abuse, as well as how to respond to a disclosure of abuse, are included in the appendices (from the CCPAS ‘Safe and Secure Manual’)

 

Definitions of abuse: see Appendix 5 - In Focus - Statutory Definitions of Abuse (Children)

 

Signs and symptoms of abuse: see Appendix 6 - In Focus - Signs of Possible Abuse (children & young people)

 

How to respond to a child wishing to disclose abuse: see Appendix 7 - In Focus Effective Listening

 

 

Safeguarding awareness

The Leadership is committed to on-going safeguarding training and development opportunities for all workers, developing a culture of awareness of safeguarding issues to help protect everyone.  All our workers will receive induction training and undertake recognised safeguarding training on a regular basis. This may be through CSS (Christian Safeguarding Services) events, or in-house using CSS materials.

The Leadership will also ensure that children and vulnerable adults are provided with information on where to get help and advice in relation to abuse, discrimination, bullying or any other matter where they have a concern.

RESPONDING TO ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE

 

Under no circumstances should a worker carry out their own investigation into an allegation or suspicion of abuse.  Following procedures as below:

 

  • The person in receipt of allegations or suspicions of abuse should report concerns as soon as possible to Alan Steele (hereafter the "Safeguarding Co-ordinator") tel no: 01782-813581 who is nominated by the Leadership to act on their behalf in dealing with the allegation or suspicion of neglect or abuse, including referring the matter on to the statutory authorities.

 

In the absence of the Safeguarding Co-ordinator or, if the suspicions in any way involve the Safeguarding Co-ordinator, then the report should be made to Jane Wilkinson (hereafter the "Deputy ") tel no: 01782-504026.  If the suspicions implicate both the Safeguarding Co-ordinator and the Deputy, then the report should be made in the first instance to the Christian Safeguarding Services Tel 07960 751778 Paul & Sue Harrison.  Alternatively contact Social Services or the police.

 

  • Where the concern is about a child the Safeguarding Co-ordinator should contact Children’s Social Services.  Where the concern is about an adult in need of protection, contact Adult Social Services or take advice from Christian Safeguarding Services as above.

  • The Stoke-on-Trent Children’s Social Care Enquiries telephone number is 01782-235100    

 

  • The Stoke-on-Trent Adult Social Care Service telephone number is 0800-5610015

 

  • The Staffordshire Constabulary number for reporting information on any crime is 101 (or 999 in an emergency – for example if life is in danger or a crime is in progress).   

 

  • Where required the Safeguarding Co-ordinator should then immediately inform the insurance company.

            Congregational and General Insurance Company

            Telephone no 01274-700700

Policy Number RC 01003181

 

  • Suspicions must not be discussed with anyone other than those nominated above. A written record of the concerns should be made in accordance with these procedures and kept in a secure place.

 

  • Whilst allegations or suspicions of abuse will normally be reported to the Safeguarding Co-ordinator, the absence of the Safeguarding Co-ordinator or Deputy should not delay referral to Social Services, the Police or taking advice from Christian Safeguarding Services.

 

  • The Leadership will support the Safeguarding Co-ordinator/Deputy in their role, and accept that any information they may have in their possession will be shared in a strictly limited way on a need to know basis.

 

  • It is, of course, the right of any individual as a citizen to make a direct referral to the safeguarding agencies or seek advice from Christian Safeguarding Services, although the Leadership hope that members or workers of Emmanuel Church will use this procedure. If, however, the individual with the concern feels that the Safeguarding Co-ordinator/Deputy has not responded appropriately, or where they have a disagreement with the Safeguarding Co-ordinator(s) as to the appropriateness of a referral they are free to contact an outside agency direct. We hope by making this statement that the Leadership demonstrate its commitment to effective safeguarding and the protection of all those who are vulnerable.

 

The role of the safeguarding co-ordinator/ deputy is to collate and clarify the precise details of the allegation or suspicion and pass this information on to statutory agencies who have a legal duty to investigate.

 

Detailed procedures where there is a concern about a child:

 

ALLEGATIONS OF PHYSICAL INJURY, NEGLECT OR EMOTIONAL ABUSE

 

If a child has a physical injury, a symptom of neglect or where there are concerns about emotional abuse, the Safeguarding Co-ordinator/Deputy will:

 

  • Contact Children’s Social Services (or Christian Safeguarding Services) for advice in cases of deliberate injury, if concerned about a child's safety or if a child is afraid to return home. 

 

  • Not tell the parents or carers unless advised to do so, having contacted Children’s Social Services. 

 

  • Seek medical help if needed urgently, informing the doctor of any suspicions. 

 

  • For lesser concerns, (e.g. poor parenting), encourage parent/carer to seek help, but not if this places the child at risk of significant harm.

 

  • Where the parent/carer is unwilling to seek help, offer to accompany them.  In cases of real concern, if they still fail to act, contact Children’s Social Services direct for advice.

 

  • Seek and follow advice given by Christian Safeguarding Services  if unsure whether or not to refer a case to Children’s Social Services.

 

 

ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

 

In the event of allegations or suspicions of sexual abuse, the Safeguarding Co-ordinator/Deputy will:

 

  • Contact the Children’s Social Services Department Duty Social Worker for children and families or Police Child Protection Team direct. They will NOT speak to the parent/carer or anyone else.

 

  • Seek and follow the advice given by Christian Safeguarding Services if, for any reason they are unsure whether or not to contact Children’s Social Services/Police. Christian Safeguarding Services will confirm its advice in writing for future reference.

 

The following procedure will be followed where there is a concern that an adult is in need of protection:

SUSPICIONS OR ALLEGATIONS OF PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE

 

If a vulnerable adult has a physical injury or symptom of sexual abuse the Safeguarding Co-ordinator/Deputy will:

 

  • Discuss any concerns with the individual themselves giving due regard to their autonomy, privacy and rights to lead an independent life.

 

  • If the vulnerable adult is in immediate danger or has sustained a serious injury contact the Emergency Services, informing them of any suspicions.

 

  • For advice contact the Adult Social Care Vulnerable Adults Team who have responsibility under Section 47 of the NHS and Community Care Act 1990 and government guidance, ‘No Secrets’, to investigate allegations of abuse. Alternatively Christian Safeguarding Services can be contacted for advice.

 

 

 

ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE AGAINST A PERSON WHO WORKS WITH CHILDREN

If an accusation is made against a worker (whether a volunteer or paid member of staff) whilst following the procedure outlined above, the Safeguarding Co-ordinator, in accordance with Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) procedures will need to liaise with Children’s Social Services in regards to the suspension of the worker, also making a referral to a Safeguarding Adviser (SA) / Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) where the police and/or social services advise that this is necessary. Tel no 01782-235885. NB This is to be done within 24 hours of the accusation.

In addition to this, whether or not there are such mechanisms in operation, consideration should be given to whether a referral should be made to the ISA Vetting and Barring Scheme lists of those people deemed unsuitable for working with children or vulnerable adults. Where the Safeguarding Coordinator is liaising with a SA / LADO, he/she will discuss with them about the need to refer to the ISA.

 

 

 

Section 3

Prevention

 

Safe recruitment

 

In appointing new workers the Leadership will ensure that:

 

  • The worker has been interviewed

  • Safeguarding has been discussed at interview or at a training session prior to appointment.

  • Written references will be obtained where appropriate, and followed up where necessary particularly where someone has recently joined the church.

  • A criminal records disclosure has been completed  or sight of a past DBS form along with authority to check on the update system etc (we will comply with Code of Practice requirements concerning the fair treatment of applicants and the handling of information), and any future statutory requirements issued by the government are met.

  • The applicant completes a 6 month probationary period and receives training.

  • The applicant has been given a copy of the organisation’s safeguarding policy and knows how to report concerns.

Suitability for Appointment

This will need to be determined on a case by case basis, but the following should be seen as a minimum requirement:

  1. Evidence of Christian conversion.

  2. Aged 16 or older (18 in the case of work involving teenagers)

  3. Satisfactory interview, references and or sight of a past DBS form along with authority to check on the update system (see Appendix 3 about recruitment of ex-offenders)

  4. Reference should also be made to Bible passages which talk about suitability for church leadership, such as 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. While these passages may not apply in every detail to youth leadership, they describe traits which are relevant to the suitability of a person who wishes to work with young people.

 

Occasional Helpers

  • Occasional helpers (e.g. those helping with a holiday club, or helping at a weekly meeting less than ten times a year) do not need to go through the full recruitment process, but should always be under the supervision of an approved worker and should not be left on their own with children.

  • If occasional help becomes regular the full recruitment process should be applied.

 

Management of Workers – Codes of Conduct

 

As a Leadership we are committed to supporting all workers and ensuring they receive support and supervision. All workers should pay particular attention to our practice guidelines section, which has a code of conduct embedded in it. It is unacceptable for those in a position of trust to engage in any behaviour which might allow a sexual relationship to develop for as long as the relationship of trust continues.

 

List of Approved Workers

A dated list of all approved workers and their address and telephone numbers is on Church Suite and can be accessed by the Church Administrators who include The Safeguarding Officer and Pastor.

 

 

 

 

 

Section 4

Pastoral Care

 

Supporting those affected by abuse

 

The Leadership is committed to offering pastoral care, working with statutory agencies as appropriate, and support to all those who have been affected by abuse who have contact with or are part of the place of worship / organisation.

General pastoral care is discussed regularly at meetings of the church leaders.

 

Working with offenders

 

When someone attending the place of worship / organisation is known to have abused children, or is known to be a risk to vulnerable adults the Leadership will supervise the individual concerned and offer pastoral care, but in its safeguarding commitment to the protection of children and vulnerable adults, set boundaries for that person which they will be expected to keep.  These should be tailored specifically to individual circumstances and informed ideally by risk assessments from the statutory agencies. Advice may be sought from the Christian Safeguarding Services.

 

 

 

Section 5

Practice Guidelines

 

As a church working with children, young people and vulnerable adults we wish to operate and promote good working practice. This will enable workers to run activities safely, develop good relationships and minimise the risk of false accusation. Key points of safe practice etc will be audited every 6 months, using Appendix 8 of this policy.

Risk Assessments

  • Risk assessments will be prepared for each type of activity that we run (e.g. football, or trips out to an offsite venue). These can be added to where needed for specific events.

  • When drawing up risk assessments, reference will be made to the relevant parts of this policy, and to the CCPAS handbook, ‘Safe and Secure’. Each risk assessment will identify potential hazards, who is at risk of harm, the level of risk and the actions needed.

 

First Aid

  • A well maintained first aid kit should be present at each event.

  • The presence of a qualified first aider may be deemed to be necessary as part of the risk assessment.

 

Registers and records

  • When a child first joins a group, a ‘membership’ consent form will be filled in, giving details of how parents / carers may be contacted, and any medical conditions, allergies or dietary requirements. This will be reviewed annually.

  • Parents will be given basic written information about the group, including an emergency contact number.

  • A register will be kept for each activity to record the name of children/young people, workers and others present.

  • When a previously unregistered child turns up at a meeting unexpectedly, the group leader should: 1) welcome them; 2) ask if their parents know they are here, and what time they are expected home; 3) encourage them to be home on time; 4) contact parents if possible to check they are happy for the child to attend; 5) if contact is not possible, suggest they seek permission for the following week. The child should not be taken to an off-site meeting without parental consent. If the activity is in the church, they can stay for the meeting. 6) If staying - take their name, age, address, telephone number and details of any special needs and include them on the register for that week. Record any contact / attempted contact with parents.

  • Any unusual happenings or concerns will be recorded by workers involved or witnessing an event. The record should be kept indefinitely. This is helpful for child protection and minimising the risk of false allegations against workers.

  • Any child, parent or carer has a right to see information recorded about them, although safeguarding considerations should always take precedence over this. Particularly sensitive information should be kept in a secure place.

  • An accident book will be kept, giving details of accidents and any treatment given. Items in this book should be read and signed by the parents concerned.

  • A record should also be kept of any home visits which are made.

 

 

 

Supervision

  • There must always be at least 2 appointed adults (i.e. those who have gone through the appointment procedure) present at each meeting.  If a group contains both boys and girls, and parents are not present, and there is no other group meeting on the premises, then both male and female workers should be present, unless this is unavoidable at short notice. Any off-site visits involving both male and female young people should only take place where male and female leaders are present.

  • Supervision ratios should be as follows. Depending on the level of risk, the risk assessment may state that a higher number of adults to children is needed.

 

Age

Adult to child ratio

0 to 2

1:3

2 to 3

1:4

3 to 8

1:8

8 to 12

1:10

12 to 18

1:15

 

  • Where possible a worker should not be alone with a child/young person either in the building or in transport. However, circumstances may arise when this would be necessary or helpful. For example:

  • Where cars have been used to provide transport to an event, it may be unavoidable for one person to be dropped off last, and it may not be realistic to have 2 appointed workers in each car. Wisdom should be used in these situations and arrangements should be made to keep risk to a minimum, for example dropping of the ‘least vulnerable’ child last. Workers should not spend unnecessary time alone in the vehicle with a child (e.g. if the child wishes to talk about something, it would be better to arrange to meet more publically to continue the conversation). Workers should be alert to situations where a particular child should never be on their own with an adult.

  • Where a young person asks for advice or counsel it may be helpful for them to talk one to one with a leader. Sensible precautions should be taken, e.g. doors left open; ensuring another adult is in the building and knows the interview is taking place.

  • In the case of a crèche, parental consent can be given for children to be left on their own with one adult worker, in situations where the parents know each other well.

  • No Child / young person should be sent home early from a meeting, unless collected by a parent.

  • If you invite a child to your home, ensure this is with the knowledge of the team/leadership and that a parent is aware.

 

Overnight stays

  • Consider carefully arrangements for residential stays, and whether adults should share sleeping accommodation with children. This would be an unwise practice generally, but appropriate say, with very young children or on an activity such as youth hostelling where it is the custom.

  • The premises should have adequate insurance cover.

  • There should be 2 ways out of the premises in the event of fire, working fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures which all children and workers are aware of.

  • Boys and girls should have separate sleeping accommodation.

  • Ground rules should be made clear (e.g. places that are ‘out of bounds’)

  • A parental consent form should be signed. This should also give details of relevant medical information, and an emergency number in case parents / carers need to be contacted.

  • Workers should know how to contact emergency services and the nearest A&E department.

  • Parents should be given a number through which they can make contact if needed.

 

 

Transport

  • Some of our activities take place off-site and the following guidelines should be followed, in addition to the points about supervision, above.

  • A parental consent form should be signed for all activities taking place away from the church, including consent for the church to provide transport. This could be an annual consent form to cover various activities.

  • Parents/carers should be informed about transport arrangements.

  • If any transport to off-site events has been arranged by the church, those providing it should be approved workers and should have read and agreed the safeguarding policy.

  • Drivers should ensure that: 1) vehicles used for transport are roadworthy, with a current MOT certificate; 2) the driver’s insurance policy covers them to transport other people in this capacity.

  • Ensure that parents are aware of arrangements for dropping off children at the end of a meeting, and that all children being dropped off have been collected by an adult, where relevant.

 

Where a mini-bus is used for transport:

  • The bus should be driven by a person who is 25 or over, who has had a full driving licence for at least 2 years, and who’s licence permits them to drive a mini-bus. The conditions of any relevant insurance policy should also be followed.

  • An additional approved worker is in the mini-bus as an escort.

  • A list is kept of passengers.

  • Seat belts are worn.

  • Luggage is secure and not blocking the gangway.

  • A charged mobile phone is available.

  • Defects or incidents are recorded.

 

Communications and Social Media

We recognise that e-communication (text, email, social networking) can be a positive thing, but also that it brings with it dangers. Therefore workers should follow the following guidelines when communicating with young people under the age of 18.

  • Any e-communication between a worker and a child/young person must be initiated by the child. (An exception to this would be a group text or email, to inform about events.)

  • Written parental consent must be given before any e-communication with a young person.

  • Contact should be male to male and female to female.

  • Workers should always use clear, unambiguous language (e.g. avoid terms like ‘luv’, ‘lol’ or kisses ‘xxx’)

  • Avoid counselling on sensitive / personal issues using e-communication

  • Avoid e-communication with young people between 10pm and 7am, except in genuine emergencies.

  • Workers should save any significant conversations as text files. The Safeguarding Coordinator could request to view these.

  • Only legal and non-offensive content will be sent.

  • Any communication from a young person which causes you concern should be shared with the Safeguarding Coordinator.

Facebook

  • In general, workers should not accept friendship requests from young people on Facebook or similar sites. One difference between Facebook and other forms of e-communication is that it gives access to other ‘friends’ of the contact, and the potential for problems is therefore greater.

  • Where workers have Facebook links with young people within the close church family, we would not wish to prohibit these. This is not to say that abuse cannot happen in this context, but that parents in this context are better equipped to make informed decisions about what is appropriate for their child.

  • If such links do exist, they should never involve a child under the age of 13, and workers must take care not to accept friendship requests from other, connected, young people.

 

 

Further Points about Conduct of Workers

We should never ...

  • Engage in sexually provocative games, including ‘horseplay’ (e.g. Twister).

  • Allow or engage in inappropriate touching of any form.

  • Make sexually suggestive comments about, or to, a child – even in fun.

  • Fail to act on allegations a child makes.

  • Do things of a personal nature for children/young people that they can do for themselves.

  • Take recreational or illegal drugs, drink alcohol, or smoke tobacco while in the presence of children/young people in a youth work context.

  • Roughly handle a child.

Physical contact:

  • Be mindful of how and where you touch a child.

  • Remember your size and strength during sports and games, and restrict your involvement accordingly.

  • Physical contact to comfort and reassure is valid, provided it is meeting the needs of the child.

  • Physical contact should only ever take place with the consent of the child and in the presence of others.

Meeting with individual children/young people:

  • All meetings with individuals should take place openly.

  • We should never counsel a child/young person alone in a closed room. Another worker should always be on the premises, aware of the meeting and, where appropriate, in the same room.

  • It is important to keep parents informed as to who their child is with and where they are.

  • Workers should only have children in their homes with the knowledge and consent of their parents.

Personal Relationships

  • Workers involved in personal relationships with other workers should ensure that this does not affect their role in the ministry (e.g. excessive physical contact).

  • All workers should be aware that they should act as a good example to those in their care.

 

Parental Responsibility

When obtaining parental consent, a signatory other than those listed are not generally considered to have parental responsibility:

  • The natural mother always has parental responsibility

  • The natural father if married to the mother before the birth of the child

  • Other members of the family to whom parental responsibility has been given by the courts (e.g. grandparents)

Stepfathers or stepmothers may not have parental responsibility.

 

Complaints

  • Any complaint from a parent or carer will be taken seriously. The group leader will seek to resolve any complaints in the first instance, and a record will be kept of what has been said and done.

  • This will be followed up with a written response from the Safeguarding coordinator, if appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Working in Partnership

 

The diversity of organisations and settings means there can be great variation in practice when it comes to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. This can be because of cultural tradition, belief and religious practice or understanding, for example, of what constitutes abuse.

We will therefore have clear guidelines in regards to our expectations of those with whom we work in partnership, whether in the UK or not. Where relevant, we will discuss with all partners our safeguarding expectations and have a partnership agreement for safeguarding. It is also our expectation that any organisation using our premises, as part of the letting agreement will have their own policy that meets CCPAS’ safeguarding standards.

 

Good communication is essential in promoting safeguarding, both to those we wish to protect, to everyone involved in working with children and vulnerable adults and to all those with whom we work in partnership. This safeguarding policy is just one means of promoting safeguarding.

 

 

Signed by:     ________________________________

 

Date:               ________________________________

 

 

Appendix 1

Leadership Safeguarding Statement

 

The Leadership (church elders and deacons) recognises the importance of its work with children and young people and adults in need of protection and its responsibility to protect everyone entrusted to our care.

 

The following statement was agreed by the leadership on:  31st March 2016

This place of worship/organisation is committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults and ensuring their well-being.

Specifically:

  •    We recognise that we all have a responsibility to help prevent the physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect of children and young people (those under 18 years of age) and to report any such abuse that we discover or suspect.

  •    We believe every child should be valued, safe and happy.  We want to make sure that children we have contact with know this and are empowered to tell us if they are suffering harm.

  •    All children and young people have the right to be treated with respect, to be listened to and to be protected from all forms of abuse.

  •    We recognise that we all have a responsibility to help prevent the physical, sexual, psychological, financial and discriminatory abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults and to report any such abuse that we discover or suspect.

  •    We recognise the personal dignity and rights of vulnerable adults and will ensure all our policies and procedures reflect this.

  •    We believe all adults should enjoy and have access to every aspect of the life of the church unless they pose a risk to the safety of those we serve.

  •    We undertake to exercise proper care in the appointment and selection of all those who will work with children and vulnerable adults.

 

We are committed to:

  • Following the requirements for UK legislation in relation to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and good practice recommendations.

  • Respecting the rights of children.

  • Implementing the requirements of legislation in regard to people with disabilities.

  • Ensuring that workers adhere to the agreed procedures of our safeguarding policy.

  • Keeping up to date with national and local developments relating to safeguarding.

  • Supporting the safeguarding co-ordinator/s in their work and in any action they may need to take in order to protect children/vulnerable adults.

  •    Ensuring that everyone agrees to abide by these recommendations and the guidelines established by this place of worship/organisation.

  • Supporting parents and families

  •    Nurturing, protecting and safeguarding of children and young people

  •    Supporting, resourcing, training, monitoring and providing supervision to all those who undertake this work.

  •    Supporting all in the place of worship/organisation affected by abuse.

  •    Adopting and following the ‘Safe and Secure’ safeguarding standards developed by the Churches’ Child Protection Advisory Service.

 

We recognise:

  •    Children’s Social Services (or equivalent) has lead responsibility for investigating all allegations or suspicions of abuse where there are concerns about a child.  Adult Social Care (or equivalent) has lead responsibility for investigating all allegations or suspicions of abuse where there are concerns about a vulnerable adult.

  •    Where an allegation suggests that a criminal offence may have been committed then the police should be contacted as a matter of urgency.

  •    Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

 

We will review this statement and our policy and procedures annually.

If you have any concerns for a child or vulnerable adult then speak to one of the following who have been approved as safeguarding co-ordinators for this place of worship/organisation.

                   Alan Steele                                 Child Safeguarding Coordinator

                   Jane Wilkinson                            Deputy Child Safeguarding Coordinator

 

A copy of the full policy and procedures is available from the Child Safeguarding Coordinator

 

Signed by leadership

Signed  __________________________   ________________________

Date     __________________________

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 2

List of Activities for Children and Young People (as at July 2016)

Day and Time

Activity

Age Range

Leader

 

 

 

 

Sunday 10.30 a.m. (approx – during service)

Sunday School

 

Creche when run

4 to 11

 

0 to 4

Matthew Wilkinson

Parents

Tuesday 10 a.m.

Mums and Tots

0 to 4 with parent or guardian

Liz Steele

Yvonne Tyson

Thursday 3.15 -4.45pm once a month

On Your Way Home Club

0-12 years with parent or guardian

Liz Steele

Alan Steele

Natalie Leese

Saturdays10am as advertised

Girls Club

10-14

Paula Addison

 

 

 

 

Friday 7.30-9pm

As Advertised

Fuel

10-14 School Years 6-9

Stuart Cullen

Paula Cullen

Sunday 7.30-9pm

Young People

School year 10+

Andrew Forrest

Amy Forrest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 3

Emmanuel Policy on recruitment of Ex-Offenders to Work with Children and Young People

 

Having a criminal record does not necessarily bar a person from working with children and young people at Emmanuel Church.

 

Emmanuel Church will not discriminate unfairly on the basis of conviction information revealed and all applicants can ask to see this policy at the outset of the recruitment process. We welcome applications from all born again believers who have a clear testimony of conversion, are in fellowship with the church and are able to cope with the physical and spiritual demands of children’s work.

 

Enhanced disclosure checks will be required in all instances.

 

Failure to reveal conviction information at the time of an application, which subsequently shows up in a disclosure check, is in itself grounds to refuse the person concerned entry to children’s work at Emmanuel, since it calls into question the truthfulness of other information on the application form. This decision will only be made after discussion with the applicant to ensure that there are no extenuating circumstances. The child protection co-ordinator together with others included in the recruitment process may decide that the nature of the offence not revealed has little bearing on the applicant’s suitability for the position and choose to accept the applicant despite having not revealed their previous convictions.

 

Previous convictions revealed at the time of their application will only be taken in to account in so far as they are directly relevant to the position sought or the validity of their testimony of conversion. No decision will be taken to exclude an applicant on the grounds of a criminal conviction without first discussing the conviction with the applicant, taking in to account its nature, its age, the age of the applicant at the time of the offence and the sentence handed down.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 4

 

Emmanuel Church Policy statement on the storage, handling, retention and use of disclosure information

 

Emmanuel Evangelical Church seeks to comply fully with the DBS code of practice regarding the use of disclosure information and any obligations under the data protection act 1998.

 

Disclosure information will be held personally by the Child Protection Co-ordinator (at present, Alan Steele) on a computer with password protection or in a locked cabinet to which he alone has access.

 

Disclosure information is usually seen by the Child Protection Co-ordinator alone. In the event of information about a previous conviction being revealed in a disclosure, the Child Protection Co-ordinator will discuss the nature and scope of this information with the named elder (at present, Stuart Cullen) without initially revealing the applicants identity. Where the offences are considered relevant to the position applied for, disclosure information may also be passed to the Deputy Child Protection Co-ordinator (at present, Jane Wilkinson) if this is necessary to enable a recruitment decision to be reached.

 

Disclosure information will only be used to assess the suitability of an otherwise acceptable candidate for a children’s work at Emmanuel.

 

The Safeguarding officer will view the disclosure form, record information eg names, addresses, work applied for, dates issued, disclosure number and whether the applicant was accepted or not and then return to the applicant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 5

 

Statutory Definitions of Abuse (Children)

Abuse and neglect are forms of maltreatment of a child. Somebody may abuse or neglect a child by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm.

Children may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting; by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger. They may be abused by an adult or adults or another child or children. 

Child protection legislation throughout the UK is based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Each nation within the UK has incorporated the convention within its legislation and guidance.

ENGLAND

The four definitions of abuse below operate in England based on the government guidance ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children (2010)’.

What is abuse and neglect?
Abuse and neglect are forms of maltreatment of a child. Somebody may abuse or neglect a child by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm. Children may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting, by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger for example, via the internet. They may be abused by an adult or adults, or another child or children.

Physical abuse
Physical abuse may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating, or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a child.

Emotional abuse
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development.
It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may include not giving the child opportunities to express their views, deliberately silencing them or ‘making fun’ of what they say or how they communicate. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on children. These may include interactions that are beyond the child’s developmental capability, as well as overprotection and limitation of exploration and learning, or preventing the child participating in normal social interaction. It may involve seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. It may involve serious bullying (including cyberbullying), causing children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, though it may occur alone.

Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving a high level of violence, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside of clothing. They may also include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of, sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming a child in preparation for abuse (including via the internet). Sexual abuse is not solely perpetrated by adult males. Women can also commit acts of sexual abuse, as can other children.

Neglect
Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:

  • provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment);

  • protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger;

  • ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate care-givers); or

  • ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.

It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 6

 

Signs of Possible Abuse (children & young people)

The following signs could be indicators that abuse has taken place but should be considered in context of the child’s whole life.

Physical
Injuries not consistent with the explanation given for them
Injuries that occur in places not normally exposed to falls, rough games, etc
Injuries that have not received medical attention
Reluctance to change for, or participate in, games or swimming
Repeated urinary infections or unexplained tummy pains
Bruises on babies, bites, burns, fractures etc which do not have an accidental explanation*
Cuts/scratches/substance abuse*

Sexual
Any allegations made concerning sexual abuse
Excessive preoccupation with sexual matters and detailed knowledge of adult sexual behaviour
Age-inappropriate sexual activity through words, play or drawing
Child who is sexually provocative or seductive with adults
Inappropriate bed-sharing arrangements at home
Severe sleep disturbances with fears, phobias, vivid dreams or nightmares, sometimes with overt or veiled sexual connotations
Eating disorders - anorexia, bulimia*

Emotional
Changes or regression in mood or behaviour, particularly where a child withdraws or becomes clinging. 
Depression, aggression, extreme anxiety. 
Nervousness, frozen watchfulness
Obsessions or phobias
Sudden under-achievement or lack of concentration
Inappropriate relationships with peers and/or adults
Attention-seeking behaviour
Persistent tiredness
Running away/stealing/lying

Neglect
Under nourishment, failure to grow, constant hunger, stealing or gorging food, Untreated illnesses,
Inadequate care, etc

*These indicate the possibility that a child or young person is self-harming.  Approximately 20,000 are treated in accident and emergency departments in the UK each year.

APPENDIX 7

 

Effective Listening

Ensure the physical environment is welcoming, giving opportunity for the child or vulnerable adult to talk in private but making sure others are aware the conversation is taking place.

  • It is especially important to allow time and space for the person to talk

  • Above everything else listen without interrupting

  • Be attentive and look at them whilst they are speaking

  • Show acceptance of what they say (however unlikely the story may sound) by reflecting back words or short phrases they have used

  • Try to remain calm, even if on the inside you are feeling something different

  • Be honest and don’t make promises you can’t keep regarding confidentiality

  • If they decide not to tell you after all, accept their decision but let them know that you are always ready to listen.

  • Use language that is age appropriate and, for those with disabilities, ensure there is someone available who understands sign language, Braille etc.

HELPFUL RESPONSES

  • You have done the right thing in telling 

  • I am glad you have told me

  • I will try to help you

DON'T SAY

  • Why didn't you tell anyone before?

  • I can't believe it!

  • Are you sure this is true?

  • Why?  How?  When?  Who?  Where?

  • I am shocked, don't tell anyone else

 

APPENDIX 8

Checklist for Safeguarding Audit

Group:

Group Leader:

Other approved workers who are regularly involved:

Action

Yes / no

Risk assessment used for all activities

 

First aid kit available at all events

 

Group membership consent forms up to date for all attendees

 

All parents supplied with written information about the group, including emergency phone number

 

Weekly register kept (recording children, workers and others present) 

 

Unusual incidents or concerns recorded in log book

 

Accident book up to date and signed by parents

 

Records of any home visits in log book

 

Enough approved workers at events to fulfil supervision ratios

 

Both male and female workers where needed

 

Any overnight events likely to happen during the next 6 months?

If yes - ‘Overnight stays’ section of policy revisited?

 

If transport is used for any activities:

Parental consent forms, including consent for transport, up to date

 

Parents informed about transport arrangements

 

Drivers are approved workers who have read and agreed policy

 

Vehicles roadworthy with current MOT

 

Drivers aware of need for roadworthy vehicle, current MOT, appropriate insurance cover

 

Parents aware of drop-off arrangements

 

Mini-bus driver meets conditions in policy

 

Additional approved worker in mini-bus

 

Mini-bus log book up to date (passenger lists, defects, incidents)

 

Safe riding followed (seat belts; luggage secure and not blocking gangway; mobile phone available)

 

All workers have reviewed key points of policy in last 6 months

 

Any complaints during last 6 months?

 

If yes, what was the outcome?

 

 

Any training, support or resources needed by your group?

 

 

Date:                                                                            Signed:

Appendix 9

I undertake to inform the leaders as soon as possible about any changes to the medical information given above.

Name (please print):

Relationship to child:

Signed:                                                                 Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 10

 

STANDARD QUESTIONS TO BE ASKED AT INTERVIEW DURING APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE

 

  • Please tell us about how you became a Christian, and what difference the Lord has made in your life.

 

  • Why do you want to work with children?

 

  • Is there anything you think you should disclose or discuss before accepting this post?

 

  • Why do you think ‘safeguarding’ is important? Is there anything you want to ask about this? Are you willing to read and work within the Emmanuel Safeguarding Policy?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 11

EMMANUEL CHURCH: APPLICATION FORM FOR PAID OR VOLUNTARY WORK WITH CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE.

We ask all prospective workers with children and young people to complete this form. The information will be kept confidentially by the Church, unless requested by an appropriate authority.

 

1.            PERSONAL DETAILS

Full Name            …………………………………………………………………………………………........................

Maiden/Former Name(s)             ………………………………………………………………………………………….

Date of Birth      …………………………………………………………………………...............

Home address ………………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....

Postcode             ……………………………………………………………………………………….

Telephone No. Day         …………………………………     Evening ………………………………

 

Have you ever had an offer to work with children/young people declined?  YES/NO

If yes, please give details  …………………………………………………………………….……….....................

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….............................

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….............................

Do you suffer, or have you suffered any illness which may directly affect your work with children or young people?  YES/NO

If yes, please give details ……………………………………………………………………………..........................

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………................................

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………................................

 

2.            REFERENCES

Please give the names, addresses and telephone numbers and role of relationship of two people who have known you for at least 2 years and who would be able to give a personal reference.

 

1              …………………………………………….              2      …………………………………………

                ……………………………………………..                     …………………………………………

                ……………………………………………..                     …………………………………………

Tel:         ……………………………………………..                     ………………………………………...

 

Role/     ……………………………………………..                     …………………………………………

Relationship

3.            DECLARATION (See note below*)

 

Have you ever been charged with or convicted of a criminal offence; or are you at present the subject of criminal investigations (N.B the disclosure of an offence may not prohibit your appointment).

YES/NO

If yes, please give details including the nature of the offence(s) and dates

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. I confirm that the information given on this application form is correct and complete. I understand that a DBS  standard disclosure checks will be applied for (enhanced checks for group leaders) and I give my permission for this. Information about the disclosure service is available at www.disclosure.gov.uk

 

Signed …………………………………………………  Date …………/…………../…………

* Because of the nature of the work for which you are applying, this position is exempt from the provision of section 4 (ii) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exemptions) Order 1975, and you are therefore not entitled to withhold information about convictions which for other purposes are `spent’ under the provisions of the Act and in the event of appointment, any failure to disclose such convictions could result in the withdrawal of approval to work with children and/or young people within the Church.

Emmanuel Evangelical Church

Chell Heath Rd , Bradeley

Consent Form

Permission is granted for the following child/young person to attend activities and to receive refreshments and sweets at Emmanuel Evangelical Church;

 

Name of Child ;    ………………………………………………….

 

Date of Birth;………………………………

 

Address  ; ………………………………………………………………………

 

…………………………………………………………………………………………

 

Telephone Number ; …………………………………………………

 

Emergency Number .(if different from above);…………………….

 

Relevant Medical Information eg Asthma;…………………………

 

………………………………………………………………………….

In the unlikely event of an injury or medical emergency I consent to first aid and, if necessary, treatment by a health professional.

 

Name of Parent / Guardian;…………………………………………

                                            (Please  Print)

 

Date ;……………… Signature; ……………………………………..

 

[   ] Please tick if you would prefer your child is NOT included in photos.

If you have any questions or concerns please telephone           

Mr Alan Steele (Safeguarding Officer).813581. Mr Stuart Cullen (Pastor)

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