This policy applies to all staff, including trustees and ministerial volunteers.
The purpose of this policy:
To protect children and young people who attend The Potter’s House Christian Church. This includes those considered vulnerable.
To provide staff and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to safeguarding and child protection;
The Potter’s House Christian Church believes that a child or young person should never experience abuse of any kind. We have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. We are committed to practicing in a way that protects them.
We recognize that:
The welfare of the child is paramount, as enshrined in the Children Act 1989.
Some children are additionally vulnerable because of the impact of previous experiences, their level of dependency, communication needs, or other issues.
Working in partnership with children and young people is essential in promoting their welfare. This will include a partnership with other agencies and family members if deemed appropriate and beneficial.
We will seek to keep children and young people safe by:
Valuing them, listening to them, and respecting them.
Adopting safeguarding principles to protect the integrity and wellbeing of the child and of the staff member/volunteer.
Providing effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support, training, and quality assurance measures.
Recruiting staff and volunteers safely, ensuring all necessary checks are made.
Using our safeguarding procedures to share concerns and relevant information with those who may require it when appropriate.
Taking any allegations against staff or volunteers seriously.
Using Biblical Christian teachings to inspire hope.