Safeguarding Policy
for Christ The King Anglican Church, Almancil, Portugal
1. Introduction
Christ The King is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for all individuals, especially children, young people, and all adults. This Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to protecting those in our care from harm, abuse, or neglect, both physical and psychological. It provides guidance and procedures for all staff, volunteers, and members of the church community, to ensure their responsibilities are understood and implemented effectively.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals associated with Christ The King, including, but not limited to, clergy, staff, volunteers, and members of the congregation. It encompasses all activities and programmes, both within the church premises and off-site, involving all individuals including children, young people, and all adults.
3. Definitions
- Child - A person under the age of 18.
- Young person - A person aged 18 to 25.
- Adult - An individual aged over 25
- DSO - Designated Safeguarding Officer.
4. Responsibilities
4.1 Church Leadership
The Church Council of Christ The King Anglican Church is responsible for implementing and promoting this Safeguarding Policy.
The Church Council will appoint a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), or more as required, responsible for oversight, advice, and training on safeguarding matters.
The Church Council will ensure that appropriate resources and training are available to support the safeguarding of all individuals.
4.2 Safeguarding Officer
The DSO will serve as the main point of contact for all safeguarding concerns.
Provide advice, support, and guidance to staff, volunteers, and members.
Ensure all incidents and concerns are appropriately reported, recorded, and followed up.
Maintain confidentiality while adhering to legal and statutory reporting requirements.
4.3 Staff and Volunteers
All staff and volunteers working with children, youth and adults, Church Council members and Branch Group leaders, must undergo and pass an appropriate screening process including compulsory background checks. Background checks will be updated every three years.
Attend regular safeguarding training to understand and fulfill their safeguarding responsibilities.
Report any safeguarding concerns or suspicions promptly to the DSO.
Follow established procedures and guidelines when engaging with individuals in a pastoral or counselling role.
4.4 Congregation Members
Support the implementation of this Safeguarding Policy by following the guidelines, reporting concerns, and promoting a culture of safety and respect.
Report any safeguarding concerns or suspicions promptly to the DSO.
5. Safer Recruitment and Training
5.1 Safer Recruitment
Implement thorough recruitment procedures, including Church Council nomination forms, application forms, interviews, reference checks, and Criminal Record Checks for all staff and volunteers working with children, young people and all adults.
Maintain accurate records of recruitment checks and relevant qualifications. Responsibility of DSO.
5.2 Training and Development
Provide regular and appropriate safeguarding training for staff, volunteers, and members.
Ensure all individuals understand their roles, boundaries, and responsibilities regarding safeguarding.
Offer additional training to those in specific roles or ministries involving children, young people and all adults.
6. Reporting and Responding to Concerns
6.1 Reporting Concerns
All individuals associated with the church should report any concerns or suspicions related to the safety or welfare of all persons including children, a young person, and all adults to the DSO.
Reports must be made in person, and recorded by a DSO. They must be kept safe by the DSO responsible for the safeguarding of documents in the designated and secure Google Drive. This is only accessible by the DSO's.
6.2 Responding to Concerns
The DSO will handle each report promptly and confidentially, ensuring appropriate action is taken.
The DSO will work closely with relevant external agencies, such as local child protection services or the police, as necessary.
Support and care for those affected by safeguarding concerns will be provided, including access to appropriate pastoral care.
7. Review and Monitoring
7.1 Review
This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed once a year, prior to the AGM, by the DSO and presented to the Church Council for approval.
Any changes or updates to legal or regulatory requirements will be incorporated promptly.
7.2 Monitoring
Regular monitoring and evaluation will ensure compliance with this policy.
Feedback from staff, volunteers, and members, will be sought to improve safeguarding practices.
8. Conclusion
Christ The King Anglican Church is committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and protected. By adhering to this Safeguarding Policy, we strive to promote the well-being, safeguarding, and dignity of all individuals associated with our church community.