The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Handbook forms the safeguarding policy and procedures for churches from the Union of Welsh Independents, Baptist Union of Wales and the Presbyterian Church of Wales. It includes good practice guidelines on working with children and vulnerable adults and outlines what to do if you have a concern about an individual or situation.
We are pleased to share the web version of the 2022 handbook which includes some new and updated sections. Please see the note below concerning the paper updates.
To view or download a copy of the complete 2022 handbook please click this link : Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Handbook or follow the links below to go directly to the individual sections.
UPDATES WINTER 2022 The paper copies of the updates are ready and each church will receive a pack of inserts soon which you should add to your original file.
(We have some copies of the whole file but ask that you don't request these unless absolutely necessary as the file was designed to add further pages in the future to reduce waste and save resources).
Here are the new or updated sections:
section 1 – has been re written and contains your new local church safeguarding policy document.
Section 2 - has been re-written to include an improved guide to safer recruitment and the DBS process.
Section 3 and 4 are not changed and section 5 has been slightly changed to updated the contact details.
Section 6 contains 7 brand new or updated appendices. This includes: an updated contact list,(1) a new code of conduct based on our statement of intent (2a); a step by step guide to doing a risk asssessment,(4) information on charity trustees safeguarding responsibilities (7); new guidance on using and sharing images of children (8); some new definitions(9) a checklist and assessment tool to help you assess your church’s safeguarding situation(10)
Section 7 :has a new GDPR info sheet
Policy statement
As a church we are fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of our members and those entrusted to our care.
This safeguarding policy statement along with the guidelines and procedures outlined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Handbook, forms our safeguarding policy and procedures.
We acknowledge that children, young people and adults can be the victims of abuse and neglect and we recognise our obligation to ensure their safety in the activities carried out in the name of this church. We aim to provide a caring environment and to respond sensitively and immediately to any concerns. Members of the church, paid staff and volunteers will show respect to others, promote the ethos of listening to children and vulnerable people and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the principles of the Christian church.
The church will care for children, young people and vulnerable adults and safeguard them by following good practices in relation to the following:
o Responding appropriately to concerns and allegations (Handbook Sections 3.2 and 4.2) In line with our policy and guidelines we undertake to respond immediately when a suspicion of abuse or any other concerns or allegations are drawn to our attention. We undertake to co-operate with the Local Authority or the Police if an investigation is launched.
o Safer Recruitment for workers and volunteers (Handbook Section 2) including DBS checks every 4 years for eligible workers, leaders and trustees.
o Training and supporting our workers and volunteers in their role and in the protection of children and vulnerable people.
o Promoting good working practices (Handbook Sections 3.1 and 4.1) and creating a safe environment.
Individual church safeguarding policy statement
A leaflet is also available. Click here or contact us for more details