Safeguarding Policy

This safeguarding policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains consistent with the safeguarding policies and procedures of the Scottish Episcopal Church, and with current legislation and best practice.

The community is committed to ongoing reflection, learning, and improvement in safeguarding, recognising that creating a safe environment is an active and shared responsibility.

Principles

Our safeguarding practice is guided by the following principles:

The welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is paramount
All people have the right to be safe, respected, and listened to
Safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and responded to promptly and appropriately
We work in partnership with diocesan safeguarding structures and statutory agencies where required
We are committed to safer recruitment, good boundaries, and ongoing safeguarding awareness

Scope

This policy applies to:

All members of the community
Anyone exercising ministry, leadership, or responsibility within the community
Volunteers, visitors, and those involved in community activities

Recognising and Responding to Concerns

Safeguarding concerns may relate to:

Physical, emotional, sexual, or spiritual abuse
Neglect
Domestic abuse
Inappropriate behaviour or boundary violations
Any situation where someone feels unsafe, harmed, or at risk

If a safeguarding concern arises:

Do not promise confidentiality
Listen carefully and take the concern seriously
Record the concern accurately and promptly
Report the concern to the Community Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible

If there is an immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted without delay.

Reporting and Escalation

All safeguarding concerns will be handled in line with:

Scottish Episcopal Church safeguarding policies and procedures
Diocesan safeguarding guidance
Relevant Scottish law

Where appropriate, concerns will be shared with the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer and statutory agencies, including social work services or Police Scotland.

Confidentiality and Information Sharing

Safeguarding information is handled sensitively and shared only on a need-to-know basis. Confidentiality will be respected as far as possible but cannot be guaranteed where there is a risk of harm.

Safeguarding records will be stored securely and in accordance with data protection requirements.

Safer Practice

We are committed to:

Maintaining clear and appropriate boundaries in all relationships
Encouraging a culture where concerns can be raised without fear
Ensuring safeguarding guidance is available to those involved in ministry or leadership
Reflecting regularly on safeguarding practice within the life of the community

Who to Contact

If you have a safeguarding concern or would like advice about a safeguarding matter, please contact our Safeguarding Lead, Br. Nicholas.

Br. Nicholas has particular responsibility for:

Acting as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns within the community
Ensuring safeguarding concerns are responded to promptly and appropriately
Liaising with the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer and, where necessary, statutory authorities
Supporting those who raise concerns and ensuring they are taken seriously
Promoting safeguarding awareness and good practice within the community
Ensuring safeguarding records are kept securely and confidentially

If a concern involves immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted without delay.

Further safeguarding support and advice may also be sought through diocesan safeguarding structures of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

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