Suffolk Heights Benefice Safeguarding policy

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Suffolk Heights Benefice recognises that the welfare of young people and children is paramount and that we all have a duty of care when they are in our charge. We do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities’.

Suffolk Heights Benefice is committed to safeguarding as an integral part  of the life and ministry of the Church.  All the Churches in the  benefice adopt the safeguarding policy for children, young people and  adults as set out in the ‘Promoting a Safer Church’ document issued by  the Church of England and the House of Bishops’ and Diocesan  safeguarding policies and practice guidance.  The safeguarding policy  statements and practice guidance can be found at www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding.

Concerns
When there is a disclosure of harm or there are concerns about the  welfare of any children, young people or vulnerable adult, all adults in  our church community are expected to share their concerns with the  Benefice Safeguarding Officer or the Rector.  

Any referrals should be  made without delay to Suffolk County Council Customer First – 0808 800  4005 (freephone from landlines and some mobiles).  

If a child, young  person or vulnerable adult is at risk of immediate harm, the police  should be informed immediately – 999.