The Methodist Church The Square

• The Methodist Church
• The Square
• Dunstable
• Beds
• LU6 3SN

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Safeguarding

The Methodist Church is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of its life and ministry.  Safeguarding is about the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture. This means we will:

• promote the welfare of children, young people and adults
• work to prevent abuse from occurring
• seek to protect and respond well to those that have been abused

 

Key documents:

·      Square Safeguarding Policy 2023

·      Circuit Safeguarding Policy 2022

·      The Square Safeguarding reporting form

 

 

Safeguarding Concerns

Key Contacts:

• The Square: Rev. Claudia Lupi; reverendlupi@yahoo.com
• Church Safeguarding Officer: Deborah Mitchelmore 07845 259896; safeguarding@squaremethodist.org
• Circuit Safeguarding Officer: Shepherd Kombo 07584 205497; sedkombo@gmail.com

If you have a concern about possible abuse (including allegations):

• In an emergency, respond immediately.
• Consult the person to whom you are responsible.
• Decide together whether to seek advice or to make an immediate referral.
• Keep a record of what happened, your concerns and your actions.
• Tell your minister and/or safeguarding representative:
• Only tell others who need to know.

 

If a child, young person or adult wishes to disclose they have been abused:

• Listen. Keep listening. Do not question or investigate.
• Do not promise confidentiality; tell them we need to share this.
• Assure them they are not to blame.
• Tell them what you are going to do and that they will be told what happens.
• Make careful notes of what is said, record dates, times, events and when you are told.
• Report it to the person to whom you are responsible and your minister or safeguarding representative.
• Only tell those who need to know.

 Things to remember

• Treat everyone with respect, setting a positive example for others.
• Respect personal space and privacy.
• Ensure another adult is present or within sight or hearing of any activity.
• Ensure any actions cannot be misinterpreted by someone else.
• Challenge unacceptable behaviour.
• Do not put anyone, including yourself, in a vulnerable or compromising situation.
• Do not have inappropriate physical or verbal contact with others.
• You must not keep allegations or suspected abuse secret.

 

For further information about other aspects of Safeguarding, please follow the link to the Circuit Safeguarding webpages: https://www.southbedsmethodist.org.uk/safeguarding.htm