Many Churches have been taking Safeguarding seriously and have been making provision for their ministers and volunteers to participate in the safeguarding training provided by HEBA.
From 1 January 2017, all accredited persons and Nationally Recognised Pastors must undertake the BUGB level 2 and 3 safeguarding training every 4 years, and at least one module per year in the intervening years. This includes those serving as a Moderator or part-time minister.
Baptist charity trustees/deacons/leadership teams are reminded that they have a legal obligation to report any suspicions, allegations or incidents of abuse of vulnerable beneficiaries immediately to the Charity Commission. More information is available for download.
A quick referral guide for HEBA churches responding to concerns is here.
Remember your Regional Minister can help you with your safeguarding practice.
Churches in the Black Country
Contact Revd Adrian Argile – aa@baptist-heartofengland.org
Churches in Coventry, Warwickshire, South Birmingham and Solihull
Contact Revd Neil Le Tissier – nl@baptist-heartofengland.org
Churches in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire
Contact Revd Alison Mackay – am@baptist-heartofengland.org
Churches in North Birmingham and Staffordshire
Contact Revd David Ellis – de@baptist-heartofengland.org
Other contact details for these ministers can be found in the Association Directory or via the Association Office – 0121 472 4986.
If you require urgent advice you can contact the Thirtyone:eight helpline.
(Thirtyone:eight is the new name of CCPAS)
If someone is in danger, contact the Police.
KEEPING PEOPLE SAFE
The Baptists Together website contains many resources to help and encourage Baptist churches in their safeguarding. The Resource Library webpage contains several publications that can be downloaded for free. The current titles are
BUGB Guide to DBS Checks
Safeguarding Contracts FAQ
BUGB Guide to Cyber Safety
BUGB Guide to Understanding Domestic Abuse
Gateway to Level 2 Excellence in Safeguarding
Safe to Grow
BUGB Guide to Understanding Self Harm
You can download Safe to Belong plus appropriate model policy and report forms here.
You can download Safe to Grow and lots of forms, policies etc here.