A brief summary of actions not covered in previous drop-ins can be read below:
- Part 1 – specific questions and queries
- Independent Safeguarding Audit 9th to 12th September 2025 – there will be a survey sent to parishes by the auditors, probably towards the end of May to be completed by the end of June. The auditors would like to hear from as many people as possible so please do ask your parish to circulate it to mailing lists when you receive it and encourage people to respond.
- This is a link to the Safeguarding Standards.
- Dashboards – any questions contact Sara Black or your DSA.
- Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse training – Sunday School leaders must should complete this training.
- Leadership training can be booked through the Church of England training portal.
- GDPR – new retention policy is due to be published by the National Church later this month and will be circulated once published.
Part 2 – general reflection and conversation on the PSO role
- There was some conversation around where responsibility for safeguarding in the parish lies. The PSO is part of a team with clergy and Churchwardens, with the PCC having overall responsibility. It was suggested that PCC insurance should be checked that it includes joint liability. It is also important that everyone is up to date with the relevant DBS and safeguarding training.
- There is no expectation for PSOs to be available 24/7, but signposting of how to contact the PSO and the Diocesan Safeguarding Team (DST) is important, such as on website and posters.
- A rationale for decision making is important. PSOs are part of a team with clergy and Churchwardens.
- It is recommended that parishes do not respond to the press if they make contact about a safeguarding matter but should contact the DST.