St Francis Welwyn Garden City 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 Francis; Alison Paterson is our Designated Safeguarding Lead and can be contacted about any safeguarding matter by emailing: safeguarding@stfranciswgc.org.uk. You can also speak to our Parish Priest, Reverend Jenny Fennell on 01707 320960 or email: vicar@stfranciswgc.org.uk
Important Contact Details:
Alison Paterson - Parish Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): safeguarding@stfranciswgc.org.uk
Jenny Fennell - Parish Priest: vicar@stfranciswgc.org.uk
Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA): safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org
Jeremy Hurst (DSA): 01727 818107 or 07867 350886
Martyn Hedley (Deputy DSA) 01727 818106 or 07391 010033
Thirtyone:eight - overnight helpline: 0303 003 11 11
If you are worried about a child or adult's immediate safety then please call 999
Some useful links:
The Safeguarding Policy adopted by the PCC
More information on the Church of England’s National Safeguarding
More information about Safeguarding in the Diocese of St. Albans