A new safeguarding campaign with resources for parishes will be launched at Chester Cathedral in June.
Speak Out: Stay Safe will provide Parish Safeguarding Officers and volunteers with a suite of free resources for using in church settings. The bright, modern, eye-catching designs were produced in consultation with children, young people, and victims and survivors.
The positive, proactive language and accessible imagery, have been developed to raise awareness of the need for everybody to take responsibility, remain vigilant and report concerns.
Parish representatives who attend the workshop and annual safeguarding service, will be able to collect a launch pack containing samples with an order form for supplies of:
- Age-appropriate information cards for children and young people,
- Pre-loaded USB sticks containing a library of useful documents and templates, posters etc.
- Pin badges
- New contact cards for all church members and volunteers including ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ if someone raises concern with you.
- Safeguarding standards display posters linked to five themes.
Mark Tanner, Bishop of Chester said: “Chester Diocese is committed to promoting a safer environment with a culture and working practices that are hurt free. That means, we speak out so that people are protected from the risk of being harmed in any way, either physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually.
“Our vision, Together in Christ, sharing hope means Good News for everyone. Good News that speaks of a welcome for all, especially the most vulnerable into a Church that affirms the value of every single person.
“We are all responsible for safeguarding. Leaders, in particular must be completely trustworthy, so that all of us can act to prevent abuse from happening and respond well where it has.”
Details of the launch and workshop have been sent to all Parish Safeguarding Officers with an invitation to the annual safeguarding service at Chester Cathedral which will be led by the Bishop of Chester, Mark Tanner, the Bishop of Stockport, Sam Corley, and the Bishop of Birkenhead, Julie Conalty.
Speaking about the safeguarding service, Bishop Julie said: “This now annual event is an opportunity to come together from across Chester Diocese to give thanks for all the work that goes on in parishes, projects and church schools in order to safeguard those who are vulnerable and to respond well to anyone who reports or has experienced abuse. While we lament and repent of the failings of the Church, we can also celebrate the progress we are making and those whose contributions have been particularly notable. This year we have the added joy of launching our Speak Out Stay Safe campaign.
Parish Safeguarding Officers can book places at the workshop using this link.
All are invited to the annual safeguarding service which takes place at 7pm on Tuesday 10 June. Booking is not required.