​​

🛡️ Safeguarding Policy Statement

New Road Church: committed to a safe

and caring community purpose.

This safeguarding policy sets out our commitment to protect children, young people, and adults at risk who engage with our church. We aim to create a safe, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and protected from harm.

​

Our Commitment

At New Road, we believe safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We are committed to:

• Promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk

• Preventing abuse from occurring

• Responding promptly and appropriately to concerns or disclosures

• Supporting survivors of abuse and those affected

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers understand their safeguarding duties

 

Legal Framework

This policy is based on UK legislation and guidance, including:

• Children Act 1989 & 2004

• Care Act 2014

• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)

• Church of England’s “Promoting a Safer Church” guidance

 

Safeguarding contact

• Safeguarding Lead: Paul Forrest, responsible for overseeing safeguarding practices and responding to concerns.

• Deputy Safeguarding Lead: Len Gomes, supports the lead and acts in his absence.

​

Safe Practices

We shall:

• Conduct DBS checks for all staff and volunteers working with children or adults at risk

• Provide safeguarding training and regular updates

• Ensure activities are risk-assessed and appropriately supervised

• Maintain confidentiality while following reporting procedures

 

Reporting Concerns

If you have a safeguarding concern:

1. Speak to the Safeguarding Lead or Deputy.

2. If someone is at immediate risk, call 999.

3. Concerns will be reported to the local authority.

 

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation or church activity.

 

Last reviewed: 08/08/2025