Safeguarding
St James Church and the whole Church of England take seriously the safeguarding of children, vulnerable adults and everybody that comes to us. If you have any concerns, please contact our safeguarding officer:
Safeguarding officer; Vacant
Email: safeguarding@stjamesbiddenham.com
Phone:
Diocesan safe guarding advisor, Jez Hirst;
https://www.stalbansdiocese.org/safeguarding/
Mobile: 07867 350 886
Children’s Services:
Bedford Council
Phone: 01234 267422
St James is proud to be a part of the Diocese of St. Albans in the Church of England, whose Archbishops, Bishops, clergy and leaders are absolutely committed to safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Church.
Safeguarding means 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 those that are at risk of being abused, and respond well to those that have been abused. We will take care to identify where a person may present a risk to others, and offer support to them whilst taking steps to mitigate such risks.
The Church of England affirms the ‘Whole Church’ approach to safeguarding. This approach encompasses a commitment to consistent policy and practice across all Church bodies, Church Officers, and that everyone associated with the Church who comes into contact with children, young people and adults has a role to play.
The Church will take appropriate steps to maintain a safer environment for all and to practice fully and positively Christ’s Ministry towards children, young people and adults, to respond sensitively and compassionately to their needs in order to help keep them safe from harm.
Although safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone here at St James, if you have a concern please immediately consult our designated Safeguarding Lead (contact above). You can also speak to our Vicar. If your concern is regarding the leadership in the church please contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser, or local council.
Three useful links:
Church of England’s National Safeguarding: www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding
Safeguarding in the Diocese of St. Albans: www.stalbans.anglican.org/diocese/safeguarding