What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. It is about working to prevent abuse from occurring, seeking to protect those that are at risk of being abused and respond well to those that have been abused.
““Safeguarding is about caring for and loving each other and there is so much the church can do to help local communities thrive, especially when times are tough. If we all play our part, in awareness, in compassion, and in action, that’s when safeguarding truly works.”
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Our Foundation—the Gospel
The Church is called to share the good news of God’s salvation through Jesus Christ. The life of our communities and institutions is integral to how we address this task. The good news speaks of welcome for all, with a particular regard for those who are most vulnerable, into a community where the value and dignity of every human being is affirmed and those in positions of responsibility and authority are truly trustworthy. Being faithful to our call to share the gospel therefore compels us to take with the utmost seriousness the challenge of preventing abuse from happening and responding well where it has.
We abide by the Safeguarding Policy of the Diocese of Bath and Wells - you can read our policy by clicking the button.
To read more about Safeguarding in the Church of England and the Diocese of Bath and Wells specifically, click the button.
In our Diocese and Parish, we partner with Thirtyone:eight. It is an independent Christian safeguarding charity, dedicated to helping churches and organisations create safer environments for everyone. Named after Proverbs 31:8 they equip communities to protect the vulnerable, respond wisely to concerns, and foster cultures of openness and care. We benefit from Thirtyone:eight’s specialised training, advice, and 24-hour support, empowering us to transform good intentions into meaningful, compassionate action.
What do I do if I have a safeguarding concern?
Contact our Parish Safeguarding Officer Sue Snell by emailing safeguard@stmichaelsbath.org.uk, or by leaving a confidential message with on 01225 447103. You do not need to provide any details about your concerns just let us know that it’s a safeguarding issue and we will arrange for Sue to contact you as soon as possible.
Alternatively, contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Team via the details on their website.
If the situation is an emergency, i.e. you are worried that a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate, serious danger of harm, call 999.
Other support for victims and survivors
SARSAS (Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support).
Helpline: 0808 801 0456
Mondays & Fridays: 11am – 2pm
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6pm – 8pm
They also have a live chat service, specialist support work, groups and counselling services. Find out more on their website.
Safe Spaces https://safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk/
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales.
0300 303 1056
24/7 National Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line
0808 500 2222
NAPAC (The National Association for People Abused in Childhood)
Support and information https://napac.org.uk/about-napac