Together
SPRING 2020
magazine
IN FOCUS
Safeguarding during lockdown PAGE 11 SPOTLIGHT
Working with young people online PAGE 20
CONTENTS
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26
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In this issue 1 EDITORIAL In this together. 3
NEWS REVIEW
Domestic abuse affects everybody
Church call to Government to expand safeguarding definitions in faith settings IICSA to continue hearing into Religious Organisations during Covid-19 pandemic
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IN BRIEF
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FROM THE CEO’S
Let’s pledge together. Be the change we want to see.
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IN FOCUS Safeguarding during lockdown: 7 top tips for churches
14 SPOTLIGHT Held in trust: Meet our board 17 POLITICS Safeguarding training: Why, when and how? 20 RESOURCE FOCUS Guidance for communicating and working with young people online 23 YOUTH WORK FOCUS DBS checks in a time of crisis 26 PASTORAL CARE Contextual safeguarding Creating safer places for young people
COVER IMAGE #StayatHome #ChurchOnline #ChurchatHome EDITOR Peter Wright DEPUTY EDITOR Matt Cooper Call us 0303 003 1111 Email us info@thirtyoneeight.org or visit thirtyoneeight.org follow us @thirtyoneeight PO Box 133, Swanley, Kent, BR8 7UQ Charity No. 1004490 Scottish Charity No. SCO40578 ©Thirtyone:eight 2020 DESIGN epls.design
EDITORIAL
In this together Since our last edition of Together, much has changed. And yet, what hasn’t changed is the ongoing need for churches and organisations to be doing all they can to ensure the safety of vulnerable people within their care. In this edition we’ve tried to address some of the challenges and concerns that churches and organisations face during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Do check out our 7 top tips for churches (p11) which gives some helpful reminders about some of the key things to watch out for. Also our article on DBS checks in a time of crisis (p23) gives an important update on some of the temporary changes to DBS procedures during this time. In this edition we’re introducing you to our current Trustee board (p14). Like any charity our trustees play a crucial role in the governance of our organisation, and have supported our staff in making the transition to work from home so that the majority of our vital services have been able to continue to operate unchanged. If you haven’t already signed our Safer Places Pledge we’d love you to consider doing so. Hundreds of individuals and organisations have already signed-up since we launched it at the start of the year (p7). Do also take a look at our article on Contextual Safeguarding (p26) where we shine a light
on this emerging concept. We look at what contextual safeguarding is, and how churches can get involved in supporting young people outside of the context of family. To help you navigate some of the challenges during this time we’re highlighting a new free resource that we’ve produced together with the charity Youthscape giving guidance for communicating and working with young people online (P20), plus we look at the importance of training and how to make the most of our online webinar learning opportunities to support your workers (p17). Don’t forget to check our website for the latest updates plus our new podcast focusing on safeguarding during the pandemic. If you’re a member with us, please do consider joining our members only Facebook group where you can ask questions and share your thoughts and comments with others. As always we’d love to hear from you about the issues that matter to you and the challenges you face so please do continue to get in touch. You can do this through our
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website, by dropping us a line on our social media @thirtyoneeight or emailing us at info@thirtyoneeight.org Stay home, stay safe. Peter Editor
Want to make sure your safeguarding policy is fit for purpose? Get the peace of mind that comes with having your policy checked by a team of safeguarding professionals and knowing it's fully in line with the latest guidance and best practice.
What's included: • A full review of your policy • Policy returned with annotations • Suggested improvements • Returned within 5 days • Follow-up conversation
Quick. Reliable. Trusted. visit thirtyoneeight.org/policy-review or call 0303 003 1111 (option 2) to book your review or to find out about our other policy support services. Charity No. 1004490, Scottish Charity No. SCO40578
NEWS REVIEW
Domestic abuse ‘affects everybody’
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he Duchess of Cornwall spoke out against domestic abuse at the launch of the 10th annual Women of the World festival in March. Camilla, who is president of the organisation, used the opening session of the three-day event in London to call for men to use their voices alongside women to raise awareness of the issue.
on Sunday, the home secretary, Priti Patel said current restrictions telling people to stay indoors were even harder for people whose home is not the safe place it should be. “Whilst our advice is to stay at home, anyone who is at risk of, or experiencing, domestic abuse, is still able to leave and seek refuge. Refuges remain open, and the police will provide support to all individuals who are being abused - whether physically, emotionally, or otherwise,” she said.
She said this taboo subject should be brought out into the open and discussed. In February, the duchess said domestic abuse can affect anybody, regardless of social standing or wealth and implored those suffering to seek help. During the Coronavirus lockdown charities and police forces across the country have been warning of a potential rise in cases of domestic violence. The National Domestic Abuse helpline saw a 25% increase in calls and online requests for help since the lockdown. Campaigners have warned the restrictions could heighten domestic tensions and cut off escape routes. Writing in the Mail
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NEWS REVIEW
Church call to Government to expand safeguarding definitions in faith settings Thirtyone:eight has called for the government to expand the law regarding positions of trust to cover faith organisations and sports clubs.
submitted to the inquiry from survivors, faith and religious organisations and the third sector, there is a clear consensus that the definition of ‘positions of trust’ needs revising. The call to change the law comes with the full backing of the major church groups represented in the United Kingdom including the Church of England, Catholic Church, Baptist, Methodist, United Reformed Church and the Quakers, along with other faith communities.
In a report launched on 28th January, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Safeguarding in Faith Settings, (of which Thirtyone:eight is the secretariat) warned that the current loopholes are leaving 16- to 17-year-olds exposed to greater risk of grooming and abuse, and making it possible for faith leaders or sports coaches to engage in sexual activity with them “with impunity”. The report, which calls for the Government to make ‘simple’ changes that will close current loopholes in the law, reveals that there is not just a need for the law to extend ‘positions of trust’ to any adult working with children while in a ‘position of trust’, but it also challenges previous claims that there is insufficient appetite to warrant such a change. From the evidence
IICSA to continue hearing into Religious Organisations during Covid-19 pandemic England in this country, has come in for the lion’s share of attention alongside perhaps the Roman Catholic Church and I think that is because of their long-standing history but also because they are probably the easiest to identify and to get a hold of because they are well-structured. I think the consequence has been that the nonconformist church, the Free Church traditions, have not come under the same level of scrutiny. It’s not acceptable to think that just because we are not part of the Church of England or the Roman Catholic Church that we can work to a lesser standard.” IICSA, which had temporarily halted proceedings due the restrictions in place during the Coronavirus will resume the hearing via video conference in May.
The public hearing, which started in March, aims to look into the current safeguarding practices of non-conformist churches and other religious groups in England and Wales. Public hearings and evidence will be used to review vetting and training procedures that exist and see if anything needs improving. The Independent Inquiry for Child Sexual Abuse had previously looked into the Church of England and the Catholic Church. Justin Humphreys, CEO for Safeguarding who has been giving evidence as part of the Inquiry, said “I think the established church, the Church of
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IN BRIEF
Dioceses to dig deeper into their safeguarding history A new review of the Church of England’s safeguarding history will examine files of every living cleric and church officer for allegations of abuse or neglect. The work, Past-Cases Review (PCR) 2, is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. A report is due in 2021. A review of the original Past-Cases Review, chaired by Sir Roger Singleton, concluded that survivors had not been engaged in the process. The director of the National Safeguarding Team, Melissa Caslake, said: “This is a substantial and significant task, to ensure that the Church is a safer place for all, and it is vital we ensure that survivors feel they can come forward in confidence.”
Children left at risk of abuse after failures in safeguarding Vulnerable children are being left at risk of abuse from within their family by the failings of state agencies tasked with keeping them safe, according to a report into child protection. The report was drawn up by a number of organisations including Ofsted and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services. It warns shortcomings in police investigations, management of offenders and treatment of children showing worrying behaviour are allowing some perpetrators to continue their abuse unchecked. Leading figures have described the findings as a wake-up call.
Government sued after abandoning age verification schemes for pornography Four companies that were developing age verification schemes for pornography websites launched lawsuits against the British government in response to them abandoning the plans. The plans would have forced adult websites to verify users’ ages or face being blocked in the United Kingdom. Nicky Morgan, who was Culture Secretary until February 2020, said the government still had an “unwavering” commitment to protect children online.
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TOP TWEETS @SarahChampionMP Today with @thiryoneeight & faith organisations, I’m calling for the Government to close a legal loophole that leaves children at risk of abuse
@SbourneFoodbank Had a great time away with an incredible group of leaders exploring ‘Safer, Healthier Leadership’ with @thirtyoneeight and @Forge_Lead_ UK thank you both for choosing to pour into us that we may lead better!
@pressredorg We have signed the Safer Places pledge – have you? #SaferPledge @thirtyoneeight #InChurches Too
@ImpactGamersBFD Thank you @thirtyoneeight for some great training. We’ve definitely leveled up in our safeguarding quest. +100XP #EveryonesResponsibility
@InquiryCSA “The church has filed to take the necessary action to make itself that safe place that might be expected of it.” Justin Humphreys – Chief Executive of @thirtyoneeight says that in acknowledging these failures, there is an opportunity to turn the tide.
@Youthscape Special Edition Podcast no 5! @martinsaunders welcomes back @justin_31v8 from @thirtyoneeight to the Youthscape Podcast. They talk about creating safer places for young people online and looking out for vulnerable young people:
Let’s pledge together. Be the change we want to see. Justin Humphreys CEO, (Safeguarding)
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FROM THE CEO’S
E
arlier this year we launched a new campaign with the backing of many senior Christian leaders across the UK, encouraging church leaders and all those working or serving in Christian faith settings to stand in solidarity with victims and survivors by pledging to be part of a movement for change in how Christian churches respond to abuse.
How do we respond to what we are seeing? What can we as individuals and churches do? Well now there is something we can do. Let’s join together and publicly pledge to be the change we want to see. As an organisation, thirtyone:eight has been working in the area of safeguarding for more than 40 years, and although we have seen much change, it doesn’t get any easier especially in the face of such appalling stories. At the same time, it gives us a renewed conviction that things must change.
The Safer Places Pledge has been created as a direct response to some of the recent appalling and high profile cases of abuse that we continue to see making the headlines in the UK, such as the case of Peter Ball highlighted in the BBC documentary ‘Exposed: The Church’s dark secret’, John Smyth QC, Michael Oluronbi, and Jonathan Fletcher to name just a few. But it’s not just the horror of the abuse that has taken place, it’s also the appalling way people and organisations have responded when things have come to light.
Apologies and learning lessons are important steps in the process of responding to abuse, but too often that is where we stop. We must not just take responsibility, and learn lessons, but make active, tangible, timely steps towards change and encourage others to do the same. As a Christian, I must fight for the church and pursue what is right and just. I believe that change begins with me choosing to be the change I want to see. I’d encourage everyone who has been moved by what they have seen, read and heard in recent months to join me in making this pledge and living it out courageously.
It would be wrong to think that such accounts are unique to any one Christian denomination or tradition, and time and again victims and survivors of abuse have pleaded with leaders and those in positions of power and influence to listen to them and take action. Whilst they have limited success, the stories of further abuses, whether current or past continue to be exposed.
“CHANGE WILL NOT COME IF WE WAIT FOR SOME OTHER PERSON OR SOME OTHER TIME. WE ARE THE ONES WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR. WE ARE THE CHANGE THAT WE SEEK.” -BARACK OBAMA
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The Safer Places Pledge contains six statements to:
I pledge to…
Speak up I pledge to…
Put survivors first I pledge to…
Conceal nothing
I pledge to…
Take responsibility I pledge to…
Make change happen I pledge to…
Hold each other accountable
The silence around issues of abuse can be deafening, often leaving those that have been abused to be the sole voices speaking-out. We will use our voice and our influence to publicly and privately speak up about the injustice of abuse and the need for change. Too often we see cases where victims and survivors have not been believed, have been silenced or have been further abused by the response they have received. We will listen to victims and survivors and ensure we put their needs at the heart of any response. When abuse is discovered it is important that it is fully brought into the light so that justice can be served and those that have been affected can receive the help they need. We will not coverup or collude but be open, transparent and truly repentant about what has happened. Rather than apportion blame or point the finger at others, we must acknowledge that abuse happens in any culture that allows or creates the circumstances for it to occur. We will take responsibility for the ways we have personally and corporately failed and will take the necessary steps to shoulder that responsibility and the reparations that must come as a result.
Apologies and learning lessons are important steps in the process of responding to abuse, but too often that is where we stop. We will not just take responsibility, and learn lessons, but will make active, tangible, timely steps towards change and encourage other to do the same.
It’s important to acknowledge that issues of abuse are not confined to one particular denomination or tradition, but are issues experienced across all expressions of the Church. We will commit to holding ourselves mutually accountable by accepting the challenge of others about our own practice and challenging poor practice ourselves wherever we see it.
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“As the Church, we should place a higher value on peoples’ dignity and worth than anyone, but our actions haven’t always communicated that. We want that respect and worth to be seen by all so that all are properly protected and the Church is trusted by all. We pledge ourselves to do all we can to achieve those goals” Paul Harcourt, National Leader of New Wine
The pledge invites people to voluntarily sign-up and gives the opportunity for them to publicly show they’ve pledged their support. Join me and the hundreds of Individuals and organisations who have already signed up.
Go to: thirtyoneeight.org/pledge
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“
Thank you for putting the training on in this form because it made it easy to access particularly with the situation at the moment. It is a much more cost effective way for us to access training. Very good presenters and slides were excellent.
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Webinar training for churches
Need to refresh your safeguarding knowledge or quickly get new people up to speed? Our webinar series has been developed for anyone working with vulnerable people or for those who have a responsibility for safeguarding. Created by the team that developed our leading face-to-face training, our webinars provide an easily accessible and affordable way to learn. With many people working at home this could be the perfect opportunity to up-date your knowledge or to prepare for a new role.
Accessible. Affordable. Relevant. visit thirtyoneeight.org/webinars or call 0303 003 1111 (option 3) to book your place or to host a webinar for your church. Charity No. 1004490, Scottish Charity No. SCO40578
Topics include: • Safeguarding Children & Young People • Safeguarding Adults at Risk of Harm • Online DBS checks and Eligibility • Safeguarding for Trustees
IN FOCUS
Safeguarding during lockdown: 7 top tips for churches by Peter Wright
In March, as the nation began its period of lockdown in response to Coronavirus and churches closed their doors , the Archbishop of Canterbury told ITV News the Church of England has “reinvented” itself in response to the crisis and was providing “comfort and hope”. Archbishop Welby said the Church was offering vital support in “difficult times” and said “ten times as many people” were watching online services compared to the numbers of people who were going to church in person.
As churches consider a wide range of alternatives for maintaining contact with each other and providing the much-needed support to those who may be vulnerable and/ or self-isolating within their communities, we must not forget that we need to do all these things safely. There is a huge opportunity for the Church to reach out to their communities at this time, but there are also risks. This is not a ‘tick box’ exercise, but one that may make all the difference between helping to keep people safe and unwittingly creating additional risk.
Throughout history the church has consistently changed and adapted the way it communicates its unchanging message. Even in these recent and unsettling times, we’ve seen the church reinventing the way it does ‘church’ by embracing technology to reach out and minister to its community through various online means.
As a charity we exist to equip, empower and encourage the Church and others to create safer places for all, so we’ve put together our top tips to help you in these challenging and changing times:
As we’re faced with the unprecedented changes taking place in society one thing does not change. The need to consider best practice in safeguarding is as important now as it has ever been.
‘There is a huge opportunity for the Church to reach out to their communities at this time, but there are also risks.’
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2 1 4 Ensure your safeguarding coordinator or designated lead is included and involved in your church’s crisis planning.
They will be able to help you think through the implications of any new activity and give recommendations for safer working. As with any new activity you are undertaking as a church, a risk-assessment should be completed, and proper thought needs to be given to the safeguarding implications. Keep your safeguarding lead informed of any changes to your planned activities.
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Pastoral care within your congregation and the wider community should be done by those already trained and authorised to do so on behalf of the church.
Although demand may be higher than usual, your team still needs to have been recruited safely, have an awareness of the signs of abuse to ensure the vulnerable are not put at unnecessary risk, and have sufficient oversight or support. Shopping on behalf of those who are self-isolating, especially when using their own money, can leave people at risk of financial abuse and may in some cases fall under Regulated Activity’ requiring DBS checks to be obtained.
Remember that self-isolation for some will put them at greater risk of abuse. Those in homes where domestic abuse is taking place, or families who are being supported by social services, or where there are those with disabilities and mental health challenges may now be at greater risk. Especially as their usual contact points where they may be seen by others and the signs of harm and abuse potentially spotted are reduced. Keeping in contact with those you know to be vulnerable or who you may have concerns about, even if it’s a regular phone call can help and reassure them that they are not alone. This should be undertaken by those with permission and authority to do so.
Ensure you keep records of what activity is being undertaken that is outside your usual remit and by whom. A simple log of who is visiting who, frequency of contact, and any issues that may arise will help you assess any potential risks. You may need to have someone coordinate this so that you can keep oversight of the activity that is being done and ensure the most vulnerable are being properly safeguarded. A single point of contact or short list of authorised contacts could be circulated with guidance on how to get in contact if help is needed.
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If you’re in doubt or need additional support in considering these suggestions, please make contact with our Safeguarding helpline on 0303 003 1111 (option 2), which remains open.
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Ensure those that do not have adequate support networks are prioritised. Those living on their own or who have additional needs may need extra support. Selfneglect may be an issue as will the impact of loneliness as older people may feel isolated, especially if they have no means of accessing community or support online. They may need help with understanding the changing guidance and finding out how to access health care and medical appointments.
6 7 Include safeguarding as part of your plans to move services and contact online.
Be mindful of the risks of abuse online especially for children and young people. Communicating one to one online, whether via messaging or video, is the equivalent of meeting someone in a room on your own with no one around, which is not something we recommend. Hold group chats where possible or have an authorised person in the room with you when making calls. This is to keep you safe as well as the people you are contacting. Be aware of age restrictions for certain apps, that admin rights for social media are correctly set-up and monitored, and that there is a plan in place to review these when things get back to normal. See our guidance for communicating and working with young people online produced in partnership with Youthscape for more support and advice on this (See p20).
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Look after yourself and your team. Lone or home working can be a new and disorienting experience for some. Ensure your staff and volunteers have appropriate opportunity for support and time to debrief on their experiences. A regular catch-up call could be a good way to do this. A lone workers policy or code of conduct could be circulated including where to get support and lines of communication for reporting concerns.
SPOTLIGHT
Held in trust:
Meet our board By Angela Ward
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t thirtyone:eight we are very fortunate to have a dedicated and passionate board of trustees, who support our team with the legal requirements of running a charity, as well as working with the management team on our strategic direction. As you’ll discover, our trustees bring with them a range of experience and skills:
methods - having to weigh Article 8 rights (Privacy) against more significant rights. This was relevant to the Records Disclosure work in respect of non-conviction/caution information.” Andrew says he has got his sense of ‘right and justice’ from his faith. “Romans 13 has long meant a lot to me, coupled with the attitude of Jesus to children and the vulnerable - he had a very dim view of those who harmed them,” he explains.
Andrew C Pierce Chair of trustees
In his retirement, Andrew makes sure his diary is busy. In addition to his role at thirtyone:eight, he is a Board member (safeguarding lead) for a Multi-Academy Trust in North Devon, he’s involved in running a café at his church and he’s the teaboy for the parent and toddler group there on Fridays. He also enjoys spending time with his five grandsons and one granddaughter and says he’s living up to the ambition he set himself when the first was born nearly 18 years ago ‘to be a mischievous Grandad!’.
The chair of our trustees is Andrew C Pierce, who formally joined the Board in May 2018. “I’m enjoying the role of Chair over the years chairing is what I’ve done a lot of,” he explains. In addition to chairing meetings, Andrew says his role involves interaction with the CEOs, ‘usually briefly, usually weekly’. He adds: “A ‘little and often’ approach works well for them and me.”
Bridget Robb Vice-Chair of Trustees
Andrew brings to the Board his experience of working in the police. “I retired from Devon & Cornwall Constabulary (as it was then known) in 2004 as a Detective Superintendent,” he explains. “During my time, I held the lead for the police in what we’d now call safeguarding and, with an ACO Probation, I set up the Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) in Devon & Cornwall.”
Bridget Robb was until recently a registered social worker and was Social Work Manager in Oxfordshire Local Authority. “I was CEO of the British Association of Social Workers (the UK professional membership body) and General Secretary of the Social Workers Union,” she explains. “Having come from a UK organisation, I am well attuned to the issues
Andrew continues: “I had oversight of ‘records disclosure’ which would now be routed through DBS, while I also led on Human Rights related matters in respect of covert investigative
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I actually considered working at thirtyone:eight but being a trustee was something that opened up and seemed a better fit.”
of legal devolution and national cultural identity. In my role, I had a lot to do with governance and Board/management relationships - both working well and going badly. All this has helped understand and influence the dynamics within thirtyone:eight.”
Julie continues: “Being a clergy spouse, I also recognise the challenge of keeping adults and children safe in faith settings, where those who are vulnerable come for help and healing. I believe passionately in all that thirtyone:eight seeks to do and am so privileged to be part of it. My faith supports my role as a trustee; I can pray about all the matters we discuss and ask God for wisdom that I may make a positive contribution.”
Bridget joined our Board in 2017, officially becoming a trustee the following year. “I am particularly proud of the way the organisation has developed over recent years, with its renewed vision and good working relationships between the staff and the Board,” she says.
In her spare time, Julie volunteers at St Peter’s, as well as enjoying regular visits to the gym, often every day, while she also loves walking, reading, being by the sea, sunshine and supporting Arsenal, as well as time with her children and grandchildren.
Bridget is a church warden and safeguarding officer in her local church and on the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Committee. “This is the first role I have had which overtly links my faith with being a trustee,” she explains. “This has been a liberating experience and I have enjoyed the opportunity to explore how they influence each other and learn from other trustees and staff in the process.”
Dr Tanya Herring Trustee
Much of Bridget’s spare time revolves around caring for her grandchildren, while she also enjoys walking, swimming, reading, films and music.
Dr Tanya Herring is a scholarpractitioner and an international criminal law and international human rights doctoral researcher with Bangor University Law School; a postdoctoral researcher with the Wales Observatory on Human Rights of Children and Young People; and a research fellow with ICO (International Communities Organization) of London. Her specialism is in international State responsibility and obligations in crimes against children and vulnerable populations.
Julie Douglas Trustee Julie Douglas, who has been a trustee since November 2018, has delivered our training in a number of churches over the years, so was well aware of thirtyone:eight. She is married to Rev Johnny Douglas, vicar at St Peter’s Hextable, close to our head office in Kent. “When we came to live in Hextable, I was approached about becoming a trustee, given my social work background and some personal experiences,” says Julie, who was a social worker in adoption working with children who have been abused.
“I am a Research Fellow, who specialises in Children’s Rights and the Law and it was in my role as a Post-doctoral Research Fellow, with the Wales Observatory on Human Rights of Children and Young People, that I became acquainted with the thirtyone:eight network team,” Dr Herring explains.
“I love being part of a team working with an organisation that I believe makes a positive difference in areas that are vitally important,” she explains. “I believe that God has led us to Johnny’s job in Hextable ‘for such a time as this’.
She has been a trustee for a little over a year now. “I am exceptionally proud of having an opportunity to provide input to safeguarding
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across the UK; and now, part of a team with international impact,” Dr Herring says. “Within my faith, I am a leader of safeguarding and my faith supports these efforts.”
happen and inspires me to play my part at thirtyone:eight and elsewhere.” When he’s not ‘trying to keep up’ with his children, Oliver enjoys running, cycling, socialising, reading and watching drama.
Dr Herring says that, as a Research Fellow, all of her time is dedicated to international travel, lecturing and research. “My international legal research is an integral component of my life,” she explains, although she has recently welcomed two puppies into her home.
Angela Ward Trustee Angela Ward has more than 30 years’ experience in journalism and PR and currently runs her own content creation and social media agency based in East Sussex. Prior to this, she was PR Manager for a hospice charity working with children and vulnerable adults.
Oliver Home Trustee Oliver Home is Diocesan Secretary at the Diocese of Bristol in the Church of England and has been a trustee with us since May last year.
Angela has been a trustee since the summer of 2019. “It’s an honour to be a trustee of thirtyone:eight and I am immensely proud of the work the entire team does,” she explains. “Safeguarding is so important and it was something that I had been thinking about a lot, as I had only recently discovered that a close friend from secondary school had been abused by someone in a position of power we had both trusted at that time.”
“I got involved having worked with Justin Humphreys and thirtyone:eight in my day job, leading safeguarding and support to churches and church schools in a Church of England diocese,” Oliver explains. “I think the role thirtyone:eight plays as an independent safeguarding charity in the faith sector is crucial.” He continues: “I saw an opportunity to bring my insight and to play a part in its governance at a real time of development for the charity and need for the sector and, therefore, was open to explore recruitment to the trustee board.”
As a child Angela regularly attended her local church and was a pupil at the UK’s first church secondary school which was both Church of England and Roman Catholic. “I followed this up by attending a university formed of colleges which were Church of England, Roman Catholic and Methodist, which I feel I really benefited from,” she explains.
“In my role as Diocesan Secretary, I lead the central organisation that supports our churches, ministers and the 70 church schools. This means I am experienced as a charity leader, understand the distinctive dynamics in some faith communities and safeguarding in the Church of England.”
In her spare time, Angela enjoys keeping fit – swimming, pilates and running – as well as trying to recreate the dishes of chef Yotam Ottolenghi. She is currently training to run a marathon in aid of Neuroblastoma UK; her daughter Naomi died of this childhood cancer in 2004 and would have been celebrating her 21st birthday this year.
Oliver says trustees bring ‘a really helpful perspective as critical friends to an organisation’. He adds: “I enjoy taking a step back and bringing my experience from the faith sector and in leading a charity to the Board. I am passionate about the role good safeguarding plays in creating communities that are safe but also healthy and model something different in our world. My faith gives me hope that this can
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POLITICS
Safeguarding training: Why, when and how? Everyone who comes into contact with children and families has a role to play in Safeguarding, however those that have a specific role or responsibility need to receive appropriate training to help them understand those responsibilities and feel confident in preventing and responding to situations as they arise. Churches can be a busy places and it can sometimes be tempting to cut corners to ease the burden on volunteers and staff. However, training workers effectively, as well as being a requirement, also means your organisation will be able to ensure you’re creating safer places for all, not just those you care for, but for your workers as well.
The frequency of training needs to be such that workers are competent and knowledgeable in relevant legislation and practice (for safeguarding this will be every 3 years). Local Safeguarding Children’s Boards (LSCB) and Adult Safeguarding Boards (SAB) often encourage voluntary agencies to attend their training courses.
The Provision of Training
The church should also ensure that new workers are given induction training and supervision during the first six months. During this time the organisation should arrange support for the worker, including regular meetings with a supervisor to discuss how the job is going and to make any adjustments.
In order to implement the policy in relation to training, organisations need to ensure relevant role specific training is available for those who work with children. This might include safeguarding training, but also includes other areas of training such as health and safety, first aid and food hygiene.
General safeguarding awareness training is particularly useful to organisations as it provides information about definitions of abuse, identifying abuse and how to pass this on to the appropriate statutory authorities. This is often referred to by its old term of ‘Level 1’ training. Children’s workers, leaders and those with specific safeguarding responsibility e.g. the safeguarding co-ordinator, should undertake what is often referred to (again by their old terms) as Level 2 and Level 3 training.
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Records of attendance
It can be made clear to the child or young person that if they feel uncomfortable or sense something is wrong they can always check things out with another adult.
It can be difficult to get volunteers who only serve one hour per month to come along to the training sessions needed for safeguarding. It is therefore important to plan ahead to make sure the dates work for as many volunteers as possible, and also that appropriate function rooms can be booked and the right amount of resources provided.
It is important that information displayed and given is in a user-friendly format e.g. simple language for the young, a readable font for those with limited sight, in pictures, Braille or Makaton, and for posters to be at a height where small children or those in wheelchairs can access them.
It is also important to keep a record of who has attended and who still needs to attend. Every parent, carer or family member has the right to expect the same standards of professionalism irrespective of whether an individual is paid or works voluntarily. A worker or volunteer’s willingness to complete any training shows that he or she takes safeguarding seriously. It also enables the church to show them they are valued both as a person and for the role for which they are volunteering.
Leadership Leading by example is one of the most powerful ways of setting and maintaining safer cultures. Regardless of the size or varied work undertaken by any church, place of worship or faith-based organisation, it is essential that all leaders are appropriately trained and that this is clear as an expectation upon them within the recruitment processes being used. It is also important that the church leadership understand their safeguarding policy, are willing to follow it and never try to deal with safeguarding issues independently.
Awareness Awareness is not just for workers. It is important that all those you work with, children, young people, and adults with care and support needs know who to go to if they are frightened or worried.
Learning in lock-down As organisations find themselves adapting to new and different circumstances helping workers stay on top of their training can be a challenge. With the restrictions in place on meeting together, being able to deliver training to your teams can cause a barrier particularly to recruiting new workers and getting them up-to-speed quickly so they can take on new roles and responsibilities. At thirtyone:eight we’ve been working hard to put in place a series of online webinar training sessions. With many people now working from home this could be the perfect opportunity for them to refresh their safeguarding knowledge or to prepare for a new role.
Children especially need to know the difference between secrets which can be kept and those which cannot. These are often referred to as ‘good and bad secrets’. They also need to understand the difference between ‘safe and unsafe touch’. A particular challenge for faith groups is that sometimes those in authority can consciously or unconsciously prevent others from asking questions or challenging decisions. There is a common thread within many faiths concerning children obeying parents. This can present a risk for a child who is being abused.
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Webinar topics currently include: • Safeguarding Children & Young People • Safeguarding Adults at Risk of Harm • Online DBS checks and Eligibility • Safeguarding for Trustees Visit our website for more information and to book a webinar today: thirtyoneeight.org/ webinars
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RESOURCE FOCUS
Resource Focus: Guidance for communicating and working with young people online
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outreach, where we can invite young people to view and even participate in activities without ever having to cross the threshold of a church or other physical meeting space.”
s churches and particularly youth ministries rush to get up to speed with the latest ways of communicating online, this poses both a great opportunity to innovate and engage with young people in new and relevant ways, but also a significant risk in ensuring we continue to keep our children and young people safe from harm.
Technology allows us to reach beyond the physical barriers that exist and continue to stay connected. But what does this mean for youth work and particularly adapting to the change in physically meeting and holding events for young people?
As part of our ongoing partnership with the charity Youthscape, we’ve put together a set of guidance, on communicating and working safely with young people online. This is to help youth workers and churches that are thinking through the challenges and opportunities this presents.
Martin explains “Online youth work can take many forms which may include: Meeting as a group through an online video chat platform; Connecting with individuals and groups through messaging software; Broadcasting activities or video on social platforms; or a video call with a young person and two approved youth workers.
Martin Saunders, Director of Innovation & Deputy CEO at Youthscape says “Digital technologies present a huge range of opportunities for innovation in youth work. Even when we’re not able to physically meet with young people in groups or as individuals, the Internet enables us to connect in a range of ways.
Each of these methods can provide a great opportunity for youth work which otherwise might not happen, or even for an enhanced experience of what is possible. But all come with risks, which we need to understand and plan for.”
Young people who find it difficult to meet and talk in person can often feel much more comfortable communicating behind the ’safety’ of a screen. Connecting through a smartphone or computer opens up huge potential for a different kind of
Communicating with groups and holding virtual gatherings via online platforms as well as being a great opportunity to engage, also present a
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number of challenges and safeguarding risks that should be considered before jumping ahead. Justin Humphreys, joint-CEO at Thirtyone:eight says “It’s important to remember that communicating with young people online, whether via messaging or video, is the equivalent of meeting that young person in real life. Just as meeting in a room on your own with no one around brings with it risks, so too does meeting them on your own in the virtual space. Even group calls or broadcast media carry their own set of risks that we must be careful to mitigate against.
“What we would urge all churches and organisations to do, as they are thinking about making alternative arrangements for the foreseeable future and engaging young people online, is to make sure you are consulting your safeguarding coordinator or your parish safeguarding officer so that they can talk through with you the potential implications and make sure that whatever we are doing to keep connected with young people and other vulnerable people in our communities that we’re doing it safely.”
That’s why we’ve create this guidance with Youthscape to help churches and youth workers think through the various implications and risks, and to help them respond appropriately. Some of the potential areas of risk include: The opportunity for grooming/ sexual exploitation; Sharing of personal contact details of young people and youth workers; Inappropriate conversations between young people and workers; Potential allegations against workers; Use of apps with minimum age restrictions; and the facilitation of abusive or unkind behaviour (cyber-bullying) between young people.
Engaging with young people online can be daunting, especially if you’re doing it for the first time, but it doesn’t have to be. Seeing it as an opportunity to continue to engage and build relationships with young people, can often help overcome the fear of getting it wrong or of losing connection with young people who may already be on the margins of your church community. Thinking through the potential risks and getting an understanding of the pitfalls and areas of concern, will help you make sure that however you choose to engage online, that you’re doing it safely and in a way that properly protects those with whom you are working.
The guidance can be downloaded at thirtyoneeight.org/resources.
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YOUTH WORK FOCUS
DBS checks in a time of crisis
As many churches and organisations find themselves working in very different ways, especially in responding to the need for greater levels of pastoral care within the community, this poses many questions around the safe recruitment of workers and volunteers and especially of processing relevant background checks.
the country’s response to the pandemic. We have been working closely with the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Care in order to introduce measures that allow us to respond”. For churches, and other organisations, the pandemic has created a shift in focus with many groups looking at practical ways to support those within their community in particular getting shopping or other necessities on behalf of vulnerable people.
At thirtyone:eight we’ve been continuing to monitor the situation with regard to the impact of COVID-19 and in line with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) we’ve been reviewing our guidance and processes to keep our members updated with the latest changes to any operating procedures and advice.
To support organisations who are responding the DBS have put some temporary measures in place which churches can take advantage of which include changes to the checking of ID documents.
Dr Gillian Fairfield, Chairman at the Government’s Disclosure and Barring Service recently said: “We understand the vital role that DBS has to play in
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WE UNDERSTAND THE VITAL ROLE THAT DBS HAS TO PLAY IN THE COUNTRY’S RESPONSE TO THE PANDEMIC. WE HAVE BEEN WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE HOME OFFICE AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE IN ORDER TO INTRODUCE MEASURES THAT ALLOW US TO RESPOND.
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Checking ID documents As the public are being advised to work from home where possible, this is causing difficulties in receiving the physical documents and is delaying applications, and in some cases, preventing applications from being submitted. To ensure that the necessary checks can still be carried out, the DBS Basic, Standard and Enhanced ID checking guidance has been changed for a temporary period and now includes: • ID documents to be viewed over video link OR • Scanned images to be used in advance of the DBS check being submitted The applicant will be required to present the original versions of these documents when they first attend their employment or volunteering role. These current times could therefore be a good time for you to process any DBS checks for your workers without causing delay. This especially includes the renewal of checks for your existing workers as it is a task made easier by being able to check ID remotely.
Pastoral workers We’ve been receiving lots of calls about the eligibility of pastoral workers and volunteers with regard to receiving DBS checks. If workers are offering to get shopping for those who need help because of age, illness or disability and therefore taking money from them, then the role will be eligible for an Enhanced check with a check of the barred lists (i.e. Regulated Activity). In the same way, if your organisation was supporting an adult before self-isolation because of their vulnerability (i.e. age, illness, disability etc.) then this would qualify them for a DBS if that same level of support continues albeit in a slightly different format. If a person is receiving support because of self-isolation then they are not, as defined by the DBS, an adult at risk or an adult with care and support needs (Care Act 2014) and eligibility would therefore be unlikely.
Supporting you through Our Disclosure team are working at home to continue to provide support to our members. Although our offices are closed, instead of posting documents, we can accept them as scanned files emailed to disclosure@thirtyoneeight.org Our Disclosure helpline remains open to answer any questions you may have. Call us on 0303 003 1111 option 1. If your organisation is part of wider group/denomination you should check with those responsible for recruitment for the whole of the organisation before following any revised guidance.
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AS ACTIVE MEMBERS OF OUR OWN CHURCHES, OUR TEAM KNOW JUST HOW IMPORTANT IT IS THAT ORGANISATIONS CONTINUE TO BE ABLE TO PROCESS CHECKS SO THAT WORKERS CAN PROVIDE THE NECESSARY CARE AND SUPPORT IN A WAY THAT PROTECTS THE MOST VULNERABLE IN OUR SOCIETY
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We’ve also recently launched a new series of training webinars including a webinar on Online DBS Checks and Eligibility which has been really popular with members. This could be a good opportunity to refresh your learning or to discover something new. Barbara Ball, our Head of Advisory Services says “As active members of our own churches, our team know just how important it is that organisations continue to be able to process checks so that workers can provide the necessary care and support in a way that protects the most vulnerable in our society. Our team has been working hard to adapt our processes to the new temporary guidance issued by the DBS so that there aren’t any barriers to getting checks done. With the ability to email scanned documents you can continue to process checks as you always have done before, but do get in contact if you have any questions or queries and we’ll be happy to help”. Do visit our website for the latest information and updates to process and procedures thirtyoneeight.org/dbs-service.
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PASTORAL CARE
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Contextual safeguarding Creating safer places for young people by Matt Cooper and Jeanette Plumb Traditional child protection work has focused on working with children and young people within the context of the family, but the family can become less influential over a young person once they begin secondary school. Contextual safeguarding refers to safeguarding in places, situations and relationships outside of the family. The contextual approach stresses that we must look closely and explicitly at context in the lives of children and young people. Churches can often be in a good place to be involved in contextual safeguarding because of their children and youth work, and also their links with the wider local community.
host Foodbanks and debt advice centres. These are areas where churches can develop contacts with local authorities, social workers and the police. These can happen through the church safeguarding team making a referral, or when the relevant authorities make contact with the church to help support someone.
Where is there a gap your church could fill? In June 2019 Rev Canon Dr Rosemarie Mallett vicar of St Johns, Angell Town, Brixton and a campaigner against knife crime, suggested churches consider opening between 3pm and 6pm to offer safe havens to young people feeling vulnerable on the streets. In July, the General Synod said that churches should play a key role in combating serious youth violence in their communities.
Working in partnership Once children get to a certain age, they may be vulnerable to abuse or exploitation from people outside their families. These extra-familial problems can appear at school, from within peer groups, or online. Children and youth workers cannot monitor and dictate the lives of young people. However, the local church can often support young people by partnering with other organisations in their local community. They can develop ties with local authorities, social workers, youth workers, schools, community leaders, police and other churches. Many churches come into contact with these organisations in a number of ways. For example, many churches
Churches could find out what their local authority is doing and ask how they can be engaged and help. Many police areas have local community safety groups that churches can get involved with. One church member set up a play area in the corner of a GP surgery waiting room to support young mums. Another worked in a prison visitor centre, again setting up a play area for children who may have travelled long distances for a visit, creating safe spaces for parents to chat.
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Church youth groups may have members who get suspended or excluded from school. It could be possible for the youth workers to arrange some safe spaces and some people to support them during that time. If a young person runs away from home, or gets kicked out of home and is sofa surfing, this creates immediate vulnerability. Church leaders and youth leaders could be on the look out to respond quickly, for example creating an emergency safety plan around such a situation to bring into play.
Encourage churches to do what they do well Many churches have areas where they are supporting children and young people in their lives outside the church. It is important to acknowledge and encourage the people who are doing good work already in these areas. Support and encourage your members whose professional work is in schools, nurseries, youth work, or the police. Help them to talk freely if they want to about the pressures they face. The 2019 Children’s Commissioner report said: “The single most important thing is for them (young people) to have a relationship with at least one trusted adult who can help divert them away from gangs and access other services.” Church members who come from different walks of life can pass their wisdom on to the younger generations in their churches.
In parts of church life, such as toddler groups, kids’ groups on a Sunday morning, or Friday evening youth groups, church workers and leaders can give messages about how to make wise, safer choices. These times spent with young people are where to share guidelines about socially positive behaviours and model safe ways to deal with disagreement and conflict. It is also a place to support parents in their role of building selfesteem, security, acceptance. Many youth groups have discussions around the realworld issues that they will be facing in secondary school life. It is also helpful to share with parents the value of doing this – if they can discuss knife crime, drugs, self-harm, social media or bullying, in a safe space in church, then they will be more equipped to live safely among their peers.
Churches and gangs Church youth groups may come into contact with young people who may be beginning to associate with gangs. It is important not to overreact, as not all young people who sometimes hang around on a street corner in a group are in a gang. But it can be helpful to be aware in case it develops further or to be aware of people on the edge of that group who may be vulnerable to being groomed by an actual gang. The reasons for the pull of gangs is that a young person is vulnerable and these vulnerabilities will have roots
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from years earlier. Don’t wait until they get arrested or drop out of church – act at the first signs of problems, as well as doing preventative work. A good way for youth workers to help prevent children getting involved in a gang is by talking openly about gangs, finding out what children think about gangs and warning them of the dangers of becoming involved.
Be part of the answer Preventative work is far more effective than reactive efforts in keeping young people safe. Sometimes Christians can wait for others to do things for them. During the story of the feeding of the five thousand, the disciples tried to send people away, however Jesus said: “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” The church is often in a good position to help support and protect young people and provide contextual safeguarding. The work a church does for the wider local community is noticed by those outside the church and can show them an important message about what the church believes. Visit our resources section for more help and guidance on this and other issues: thirtyoneight.org/resources
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We’ve made a number of calls about things we’re uncertain about. They have always been great and given sound advice and showed concern.
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Our safeguarding helpline remains open. Call us on 0303 003 1111 Our helpline is somewhere you can call, anonymously if you wish, to get help, advice and guidance on anything relating to safeguarding. It’s staffed by our experienced team of caring christian professionals Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, with an out of hours emergency service for urgent calls. Whatever the issue, give us a call. You'll always be listened to, and if we can't help, we'll point you in the direction of someone who can.
Caring. Experienced. Professional. visit thirtyoneeight.org/get-help or call 0303 003 1111 (option 2) to speak directly to one of our dedicated safeguarding specialists. Charity No. 1004490, Scottish Charity No. SCO40578
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It simply got people talking, thinking and being mindful around safeguarding. The resources were good and easy to use.
” Safeguarding Sunday 11th October 2020 Put the date in your church calendar and join with hundreds of local churches across the UK as together we seek to raise awareness of what safeguarding is all about. It’s a great opportunity for your church to highlight all the things you’re doing to create safer places, and to publicly thank and acknowledge all those working tirelessly behind the scenes to make it happen.
It’s your chance to: • Explain why safeguarding is so important • Talk about all you are doing to make your church safer • Acknowledge and thank your workers • Pledge together to create safer places for all
Share. Celebrate. Commit. visit thirtyoneeight.org/safeguarding-sunday to sign-up and take part. Charity No. 1004490, Scottish Charity No. SCO40578
