EDITORIAL
Together we protect Over the summer many faith organisations finally returned to their meeting places as lockdown restrictions lifted and large groups were able to meet again.
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hings still aren’t as they were before, with fewer events and festivals taking place over the summer and plans for Christmas services remaining in the balance.
Susan Stephen
Despite all the changes and struggles that have happened over the last year and a half we must still be aware of the ongoing need to actively protect vulnerable people. Whatever our churches or faith-based organisations are facing over the next few months, all of us can put in the effort to help create safer places for all. We hope this edition provides information and encouragement as you seek to do that. On page 6 Justin Humphreys, our CEO (Safeguarding) discusses the notion of ‘Just Leadership’ and how we can apply this to our own lives and in the areas where we lead.
Susan Stephen, discusses the restructuring of these ten standards.
On page 10 we highlight how one vicar decided to make a difference by shaving his head as a lament and an opportunity to raise money to help create safer places. On page 18 we showcase Inspire North, a charity that has made a positive difference in the lives of young people during the lockdown. They were the recipients of the CYP Now safeguarding award, which Thirtyone:eight sponsored this year.
The Covid lockdowns have brought a large change in the way safeguarding is done in the church. On page 14 we outline a research project that has been done in response and will be used to improve knowledge around safeguarding. As always we love to hear what you think and get your thoughts and feedback on what we can include, so do get in touch. You can do this through our website, by dropping us a line on our social media@thirtyoneeight or emailing us at info@thirtyoneeight.org.
We aim to equip society with the knowledge and skills to create safer environments for children and adults at risk. Our framework of ten safeguarding standards helps organisations operate safely and in a manner that complies with UK law and best practice, whichever stage of the safeguarding journey they're on. On page 22 one of our safeguarding service managers,
Matt Cooper Editor
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