POLICY STATEMENT
Church of Scotland Safeguarding Policy Statement 2010
Ensuring a Safe Church for all
The Church of Scotland has a deep concern for the wholeness and wellbeing of each individual. Through its Congregations, working together with the Safeguarding Service and statutory agencies the Church seeks to safeguard the welfare of all people who come into contact with the Church and its services.
The Gospel proclaims that it’s the responsibility of everyone within the fellowship of the Church to prevent harm, be it physical, sexual or emotional, and we will always seek to reduce risk. The Church’s commitment to safeguarding reminds us that God cares passionately about the welfare and wellbeing of all people.
The Church of Scotland Safeguarding Service Scottish Charity Number SC0 11353
Further details of the Church’s theology of Safeguarding can be found in the ‘For of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven General Assembly Report, May 2009’.
Follow the link to find out more about the Church of Scotland's safeguarding service
SAFEGUARDING COURSES
All those working with our children and young people attend a course provided by the Church of Scotland. All our volunteers that work closely with children, youth and adults at risk are required to become members of the PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) scheme under the Church of Scotland.
Volunteers are provided with a pocket guide containing key information.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO GUIDELINES
As a Church we are committed to caring for and protecting children, we must ensure our actions and those of our congregation are appropriate. The guidelines we follow provide only a framework for good practice and might be interpreted in slightly different ways depending on the situation.
Follow the link to see the Church of Scotland video and photography guidelines
RECOGNISE, REPORT, PROTECT
Our safeguarding co-ordinator is: Natasha Hepburn
tel: 07539 871589 email: NHepburn@churchofscotland.org.uk
We encourage anyone who suspects or witnesses any harm or abuse to contact Natasha, and it will then be reported to the safeguarding service.