There is a renewed emphasis being placed on Church Council members to understand that they have the responsibility for safeguarding in their churches. Church Councils are asked, annually, to identify someone to oversee the day to day administration of safeguarding by appointing a Church Safeguarding Officer, however council members need to be sure the safeguarding officer is adequately supported in order to fulfil their duties.

In a similar vein the District has a responsibility to make sure Church Council Members know how they can support their Safeguarding Officer. Therefore, I’m pleased to announce 7 bespoke information sessions for Church Council members and new in post Church Safeguarding Officers. The sessions, all on Zoom, will last for 1 hour and look at individual aspects of the Church Safeguarding Policy. Hints and tips will be given on how to support the Safeguarding Officer with that particular aspect. There will also opportunity for people to share successful approaches and to brainstorm problems.

I suggest that a different Council Member attends each session; not only does that share the work load but it also means council members will have a greater understanding of safeguarding.

Whilst the sessions are aimed at Church Council members they may also be useful for new in post or struggling Church Safeguarding Officers. We will be unpicking best practise expectations which would provide an excellent foundation on which to build.

Attending the support sessions won’t leave council members with a list of job they have to do but rather help them to understand a) just what their safeguarding officer is expected to do in the role and b) how they can be supported effectively.

In session 6 we shall be considering: Safeguarding practice on church premises

'Work in partnership with the lettings officer, stewards and user groups to promote good safeguarding practice on church premises. This will include gaining written confirmation that hirers of church premises are aware of the church safeguarding policy or are using an appropriate policy of their own'.

- All lettings will be notified to the CSO who will keep the records.

How to support your Church Safeguarding Officer - session 6