Information for parishes

Here you will find national and local practice guidance and useful resources.

Parish Safeguarding Officers (PSOs) play a vital role in ensuring our churches are safe and welcoming for all. They act as the key link between the parish and the diocese on safeguarding matters, championing a culture of safety and embedding best practice into parish life. PSOs oversee compliance with safeguarding policies, DBS checks, and training requirements, while supporting clergy, PCCs who are legally accountable for safeguarding. Their work reflects the church’s commitment to building a safer church and diocese, making safeguarding a shared responsibility at the heart of parish ministry.

Promoting a safer church

National Safeguarding E-Manual

National Safeguarding Standards

Useful Information

Introduction to the diocesan safeguarding team

Information and welcome pack

PSO Checklist

Safeguarding referral form

National Safeguarding Standards Parish Poster

Safe Spaces Poster

Safeguarding in your parish whos who

Model parish safeguarding checklist

Model consent form transport

PSO role description & recruitment

Parish dashboards and Safeguarding hub

Parish dashboard

Worksheets

Safeguarding hub

Safer environments

Safer environment & activities guidance

Code of safer working practice

Model activity risk assessment

Model personal risk assessment

Model registration form for activities

Model activity risk assessment home visiting

Model volunteer driver agreement

Model hire agreement church premises

Safer recruitment & People Management

Safer recruitment is a vital part of creating a safe and positive environment and making a commitment to keep all the church community safe from harm. Failure to apply these principles and practices exposes children and vulnerable adults to greater risk of abuse by people who will target and exploit inadequate safeguards.

DBS checks are important but are only part of safer recruitment, many individuals who have or will abuse do not have a criminal record, this is why the other steps are as important.

Safer Recruitment and People Management Code of practice

DBS checks for working with children in faith settings

CofE DBS eligibility guidance

DBS video - Guide

SRPM assessment tool

Confidential declaration form

Example Reference request form

Example volunteer appointment letter

People Management (Guidance Sections 12-16)

Example volunteer induction checklist

Example volunteer support meeting agenda

Example SRPM record keeping document