A quick Guide to Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, if you see something you're not sure about don't ignore it. Your own church's safeguarding policy and procedures should help you to know what to do.

• Recognise that there may be an issue
• Respond immediately
• Record your concern in note form
• Report it to your church Designated person for safeguarding (DPS)

Remember your own church DPS is usually your first contact, but if anyone is in immediate danger of harm ring 999.

The NWBA team are also available to give advice (but do not delay urgent referrals)/notify the team of the following safeguarding matters:

• A referral to Social Care
• A concern about suitability or an allegation against a member of staff or volunteer reported to the LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) or to Adult Social Care
• A safeguarding matter reported to the Police
• A Safeguarding Contract (our risk assessment tool)

Allegations and Concerns about Suitability

• An allegation against a member of staff or a volunteer must be reported to statutory partners (e.g. physical, sexual, emotional or financial harm/abuse alleged to have been initiated by a member of staff/volunteer
• If the allegation relates to a child or young person you inform the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). If it relates to an adult, you inform Adult Social Care.
• If there is a concern about the suitability of someone to work with children/young people you also need to consult with the LADO.
• LADO’s are proportionate – and will advise you on what to do next.

Remember the BU provide helpful guides on all areas of safeguarding