Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

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Effective Date: 05/04/2026

Church of Christ Southend On Sea is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

We believe every person should be treated with dignity, respect, and care.

 We aim to:

• Provide a safe environment for all
• Prevent abuse and harm
• Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns
• Follow UK safeguarding guidance and best practices

 This policy applies to:

• Church leaders
• Volunteers
• Youth and children’s workers
• Members involved in church activities

 Where appropriate, the church may:

• Conduct DBS checks for volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults
• Obtain references
• Provide safeguarding guidance and training

 Workers and volunteers should:

• Treat all children and vulnerable adults respectfully
• Avoid situations where they are alone with a child where possible
• Use appropriate language and behaviour
• Report concerns immediately

Any safeguarding concern or allegation related to child protection should be reported immediately to the church safeguarding lead or leadership team, in accordance with our safeguarding policy. Where there is an immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted.

Safeguarding information, particularly in the context of child protection and church safeguarding, will be handled sensitively and shared only where necessary to uphold our safeguarding policy and protect individuals.

 This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing effectiveness and legal compliance.