Safeguarding in the Benefice of Hampsthwaite with Felliscliffe, Killinghall and Birstwith

We are committed to ensuring that our four village churches are safe, caring places for everyone. Safeguarding is at the heart of our shared life, and each PCC has adopted the Church of England’s national policies for protecting children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable. We want every person who comes through our doors to feel welcomed, valued and safe.

Our Safeguarding Officer
Our safeguarding officer is the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns across the benefice. They offer a calm, confidential response and ensure that concerns are handled with care and in line with Church of England guidance.

Benefice Safeguarding Officer – Jo Shepherd
Email: josephineshepherd20@gmail.com

Clergy Responsibility
The Vicar shares responsibility for safeguarding across the benefice and works closely with the safeguarding officer and PCCs to ensure that our churches remain safe and supportive communities.

If You Have a Concern
If you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child, young person or adult, please contact our safeguarding officer or the vicar as soon as possible. All concerns are taken seriously and will be responded to with care, discretion and in line with national safeguarding procedures.

If someone is at immediate risk of harm, please contact the police or local authority social care without delay.

Our Commitment
The PCC’s in the benefice have adopted the Church of England’s national safeguarding policies, including:

• Promoting a Safer Church
• Safer Recruitment and People Management
• Responding Well to Domestic Abuse
• Safeguarding Training and Development Framework

These policies guide our practice and ensure that safeguarding is embedded in every part of our church life.

Policies and Resources
You can find the national Church of England safeguarding policies here:

• Church of England Safeguarding Policies and Practice Guidance
• Diocese of Leeds Safeguarding Information and Contacts

Our benefice safeguarding policy will be available here once finalised.

Reporting and Support
We recognise that raising a safeguarding concern can feel difficult. We are committed to listening well, responding with compassion, and ensuring that appropriate support is offered. All information is handled sensitively and shared only with those who need to know in order to protect someone at risk.

Creating a Safe and Caring Benefice
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Together, we work to ensure that our churches are places of welcome, trust and safety for all who worship with us, visit us, or are part of our wider village communities.