Safeguarding at South West London Vineyard

Section 1: Policy Overview

1.1 Purpose

• To keep the Children, Youth and Adults at Risk to whom we provide care and support safe, free from abuse and neglect and to promote their welfare
• To ensure that South West London Vineyard (SWLV) staff, volunteers and trustees know what to do if abuse or neglect is suspected or disclosed; are able to see and identify the issue, think about what they need to do, who they must report this to and that they then take appropriate action
• To raise awareness of safeguarding in order to make a significant contribution to the prevention of abuse

1.2 Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers and trustees at SWLV who may come into contact with Children, Youth or Adults at Risk on SWLV premises or through SWLV associated activities. All staff, volunteers and trustees have a duty of care to act on and report any suspicions, knowledge or reports of abuse or neglect.

For the avoidance of doubt, this policy does not apply to safeguarding matters that arise outside of SWLV premises or during activities that are not directly linked to SWLV. However, if such matters are reported directly to the Safeguarding Coordinator, the procedures within this policy will be triggered.

1.3 Our Commitment

As a Leadership team, we recognise the need to provide a safe and caring environment for Children, Youth and Adults at Risk. We acknowledge that Children, Youth and Adults at Risk can be the survivors of numerous types of abuse and neglect.

We accept the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant of Human Rights, which states that everyone is entitled to “all the rights and freedoms set forth therein, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex*, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status”. * NB SWLV does not discriminate on the grounds of either gender or sexual orientation.

We also agree with the Convention on the Rights of the Child which states that Children should be able to develop their full potential, free from hunger and want, neglect and abuse. They have a right to be protected from “all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s), or any other person who has care of the Child.”

As a Leadership team, we have adopted th·e procedures set out in this safeguarding policy for Children, Youth and Adults at Risk in accordance with statutory guidance. We are committed to building constructive links with statutory and voluntary agencies involved in safeguarding. We are committed to providing a safe environment in which vulnerable individuals will be empowered, supported and given priority in accessing services and pastoral care.

This policy is based on ten Safe and Secure standards published by Thirtyone:eight, details of which can be found in Appendix 1.

Finally the Leadership Team will:

• Endorse and follow all national and local safeguarding legislation and procedures, in addition to the international conventions outlined above;
• Provide ongoing safeguarding training for all its staff, volunteers and trustees;
• Ensure that SWLV’s premises meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and all other relevant legislation, and that they are welcoming and inclusive;
• Support the Safeguarding Coordinator in their work and in any action they may need to take in order to protect Children, Youth and Adults at Risk and;
• Review this policy on an annual basis

Section 2: Church Details and Key Contacts

2.1 Church Details

South West London Vineyard Church
Heston Court
19 Camp Road
London
SW19 4UW

Tel: 020 8785 9530
E: mail@swlv.org.uk

Affiliated to Vineyard Churches UK & Ireland (VCUKI) and a member of the Evangelical Alliance

Charity No. 1045257
Company No. 3020873
Regulators: Charity Commission, Companies House
Insurers: Ansvar Public Liability Insurance

2.2 Key Contacts
Senior Pastors: Neil & Kate Woodward
Tel: 020 8785 9530
E: neilandkate@swlv.org.uk

Safeguarding Coordinator: Manny Garcia
Tel: 020 8785 9530
E: manny@swlv.org.uk

Designated Safeguarding Trustee: Stephanie Bell
Tel: 020 8785 9530
E: safeguarding@swlv.org.uk or steph@swlv.org.uk

Vineyard Churches UK & Ireland Deputy Safeguarding Coordinator: Tom Bell
Tel:01482 462690
E: tombell@vcuki.org.uk

Section 3: SWLV’s work and activities with Children, Youth and Adults at Risk

SWLV is an established Church having been planted in 1987. We are a family of followers of Jesus who: love and serve God, one another and the world in which we live.

Our Vision is that:

• God has called us to make, train and equip disciples who love and serve Jesus, who love and serve one another, and who love and serve their neighbours;
• God has called us to be the church across South West London through central celebration and local mission;
• God has called us to plant churches across the capital by training and equipping potential church planters and sending and nurturing those called by God

3.1 Children

SWLV’s children’s ministries support those aged 0-11 years. We run a programme of activities during the Sunday morning service at the Ark Putney Academy (Pullman Gardens, London, SW15 3DG) which includes: a Baby Room (0-12 months old), Preschool Room (12 months -4 years), ·and Primary school room (4- 11 years old). Each of these ministry areas offers a range of age-appropriate activities, which are led and run by both staff and volunteers across the church. Children also attend trips away to a range of other venues, where a programme of activities may be offered for children. All of these ministry areas are overseen by SWLV’s Children and Families Pastor.

SWLV also has a dedicated community space called The Yard (401- 403 Tildesley Road, Putney, London SW15 3BD}. From the Yard we run a ministry called Grow Baby; providing second-hand baby clothing and equipment, which parents and children from the local community, and from within the church, attend.

3.2 Youth

SWLV’s youth ministry supports those aged 11-18 years. Youth meet during the Sunday morning service at the Ark Putney Academy and engage in a programme of activities which are led by staff and volunteers across the church. Youth also meet on an ad hoc basis throughout the month for various activities and attend a national youth event called ‘Dreaming the Impossible’, which VCUKI run on an annual basis. All of these ministry areas are overseen by SWLV’s Youth Pastor.

SWLV also has a number of mid-week small groups meeting in church members’ homes and various venues. At any of these small groups, Children or Youth may be present, for example they may live at the home or have accompanied their parents/carers to the group.

3.3 Adults at Risk

We run a Sunday service at The Ark Putney Academy (Pullman Gardens, London, SW15 3DG). Adults meet in the main hall for coffee before the service, which includes worship, notices, a sermon and ministry time.

The adult ministries that run from The Yard include:

• Food bank (operating in partnership with The Trussell Trust);
• Job Club which helps people find employment;
• GrowBaby, as outlined above;
• Other small groups, such ‘Tea & Toast’, which provides a warm and welcoming environment for adults to meet and build relationship, and;
• Ad hoc community events.

Adults may also attend a number of small groups in person and online, ranging from house groups in homes of members of the church to specific interest groups such as bible studies, prayer groups, football and running groups in various locations.

In addition to the above activities, the church is sometimes contacted by agencies and local schools looking for help with people in the local communities needing furniture, homes decorated, or some other sort of practical help and we will work with them to provide such help where we are able.

Section 4: Recognising and responding appropriately to an allegation or suspicion of abuse or neglect

4.1 Recognising abuse and neglect

Recognising abuse against a Child, Youth or an Adult at Risk can be challenging. A person may abuse by inflicting harm, or failing to prevent harm. Children, Youths and Adults at Risk in need of protection may be abused within a family, an institution or a community setting. Often, the abuser is known or in a trusted relationship with the Child, Youth or Adult at Risk.

Detailed definitions, signs and indicators of abuse, as well as how to respond to a disclosure of abuse, are included in Appendix 3.

4.2 Responding to allegations or suspicions of abuse

The following procedures should be adhered to if a staff member, volunteer, trustee or any other person affiliated with SWLV has a concern for a Child, Youth or Adult at Risk. All concerns must be referred to the Safeguarding Coordinator or Senior Leader(s), who will determine whether to make a referral to statµtory agencies for investigation. The Safeguarding Coordinator or Senior Leader(s) will notify the Designated Safeguarding Trustee, who will report to other Trustees as appropriate. Under no circumstances should a volunteer or worker carry out their own investigation into an allegation or suspicion of abuse.

If a person has a concern for a Child, Youth or Adult at Risk:

• The person in receipt of allegations, suspicions or concerns of abuse or neglect in relation to a Child, Youth or Adult at Risk must report these concerns as soon as possible to:
• Manny Garcia (Safeguarding Coordinator: Children, Youth and Adults at Risk/ 020 8785 9530 / 07584 329398 / manny@swlv.org.uk) OR
• Neil and Kate Woodward (Senior Pastors / 020 8785 9530 /neilandkate@swlv.org.uk)

• The Safeguarding Coordinator or Senior Pastor will contact the appropriate agency, and can first take advice from Thirtyone:eight, if desired. The Safeguarding Coordinator and/or Senior Pastors will contact Social Services in the area in which the Child, Youth or Adult at Risk lives.

In the absence of the Safeguarding Coordinator or, if the suspicions in any way involve the Safeguarding Coordinator, then the report must be made in the first instance to the Senior Pastors or failing that to Thirtyone:eight (www.thirtyoneeight.org/ 0303 003 1111). The Senior Pastors will contact Social Services in the area in which the Child, Youth or Adult at Risk lives to seek advice.

The role of the Safeguarding Coordinator (or, in their absence, the Senior Pastors) is to collate and clarify the precise details of the allegation or suspicion and pass this information onto statutory agencies who have a legal duty to investigate.

When hearing a disclosure, the Safeguarding Coordinator must:

• Stay calm
• Ensure the immediate safety of the Child, Youth and or Adult at Risk, and contact the relevant emergency services as required
• Actively listen to what the individual is saying, taking brief notes of what is said
• Reflect back to the individual and try to get as clear a picture as possible, whilst avoiding asking too many questions. For example, “can I summarise what I am hearing back to you” … “to ensure that I am clear, can I check that”
• Use open questions e.g., “please tell me more about … “
• Reassure the individual, confirming that this information is being taken seriously and that it will only be shared appropriately
• Give the individual time to finish their account
• Record the disclosure concisely yet comprehensively, factually and non-judgementally

The Safeguarding Coordinator will inform the Senior Pastors who will take advice from statutory services and/or Thirtyone:eight as to who else should be informed, such as:

• Other Leadership Staff of the church or workers of the church;
• The Trustee responsible for Safeguarding;
• Trustees of the church, who may need to liaise with any of: VCUKI, the church’s insurance company and/or the Charity Commission to report a serious incident. In considering whether to report to the Charity Commission, the Trustees should consider whether it is an adverse event, whether actual or alleged, which results in or risks significant harm to the church’s beneficiaries, staff, volunteers or others who come into contact with the church through its work; loss of the charity’s money or assets; damage to the charity’s property; harm to the charity’s work or reputation (“significant” means significant in the context of the church, taking account of its staff, operations, finances and/or reputation). For further detail, the Trustees should refer to the relevant guidance on when to report issued by the Charity Commission (How to report a serious incident in your charity)
• Relevant statutory agencies including the Police and social services; or
• Designated officer or LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer) if the allegation concerns a worker or volunteer working with someone under 18.
• Suspicions must not be discussed with anyone other than those nominated above, other than on a need-to-know basis and on advice from the relevant statutory agencies. A written record of the concerns will be made in accordance with these procedures and kept in a secure place. Example forms to be used to make a written record are included at Appendix 5
• Whilst allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect will normally be reported to the Safeguarding Coordinator and in their absence, the Senior Leaders, the absence of these relevant people should not delay referral to Social Services, the police or taking advice from Thirtyone:eight
• The Leadership will support the Safeguarding Coordinator in their role and accept that any information they may have in their possession will be shared in a strictly limited way on a need-to-know basis
• At any time, the Safeguarding Coordinator, Senior Leaders or Leadership Staff or any of the Trustees of the Church are able to take advice from the Thirtyone:eight helpline or other nominated advisors

It is, of course, the right of any individual as a citizen to make a direct referral to the safeguarding agencies or seek advice from Thirtyone:eight, although where allegations are made relating to church-based activities, the Leadership hope that members of the church will use this procedure. If however, the individual raising the concern feels that the Safeguarding Coordinator has not responded appropriately, or where they have a disagreement with the Safeguarding Coordinator as to the appropriateness of a referral, in the first instance they should talk to the Senior Pastors. They are nevertheless free to contact an outside agency directly. We hope by making this statement that the Leadership demonstrate its commitment to effective safeguarding and the protection of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk.

4.4 Detailed procedures where there is a concern about a Child or Youth

The wishes and feelings of Children or Youths will be taken into account when dealing with safeguarding matters. However, consent is not required from a Child or Youth to make referrals to statutory authorities or share allegations of abuse with their parents/caregivers.

Allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect
In the event of allegations or suspicions of abuse the Safeguarding Coordinator will:

• Reassure the child or youth that their concerns are being taken seriously
• Actively listen, taking brief notes and reflecting back to the child to clarify the concerns, trying to get as clear a picture as possible but avoiding asking too many questions. For example, “can I summarise what I am hearing back to you” or “to ensure that I am clear, can I check that … “
• Offer reassurance about how the child or youth will be kept safe
• Explain what actions will be taken and in what timeframe
• The child must not be pressed for information, led or cross-examined or be given assurances of absolute confidentiality
• Take advice from the Senior Leaders of the church, if available, about contacting Children’s Services in the area that the Child or Youth lives for advice in cases of deliberate injury, if concerned about a Child or Youth’s safety or if the Child or Youth is afraid to return home. Thirtyone:eight may also be contacted
• It should be explained to the child or youth that whilst their view will be taken into account, staff have a responsibility to take whatever action is required to ensure their safety, and the safety of others including other children or youth
• Not tell the parents or carers about the disclosure or suspicion of abuse unless advised to do so by Children’s Social Services
• Seek medical help if needed urgently, informing the medical professional(s) of any suspicions
• If possible/appropriate, encourage the parent(s)/carer(s) to seek help, but only if this does not place the Child or Youth at risk of significant harm
• Where the parent(s)/carer(s) is unwilling to seek help, offer to support them, for exampleby accompanying them to any relevant meetings/appointments etc. In cases of serious concern, if they still fail to act, the Safeguarding Coordinator will contact Children’s Social Services in the area that the Child or Youth lives directly for advice
• Seek and follow advice given by Thirtyone:eight (who will confirm their advice in writing) if unsure whether or not to refer a case to Children’s Social Services
• Escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7

4.5 Detailed procedures where there is a concern about an Adult at Risk

The wishes and feelings of Adults at Risk will be taken into account when dealing with matters of safeguarding. If the Adult at Risk concerned does not have the mental capacity to give consent, or withholds consent for a safeguarding referral to statutory authorities, but there is a genuine risk to their safety or the safety of others, the referral will be made without their consent. If in doubt about whether someone over 18 has the mental capacity to make a decision of this kind, the Safeguarding Coordinator will seek advice from Adult Social Care or Thirtyone:eight, without disclosing the identity of the person.

Allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect
lf there is a concern about any of the above, for an Adult at Risk, the Safeguarding Coordinator will:

• Discuss any concerns with the individual themselves giving due regard to their autonomy, privacy and right to lead an independent life;
• Not tell the person’s family unless advised to do so, having contacted Adult Social Care;
• Contact Adult Social Care for advice who have responsibility under the Care Act 2014, to investigate allegations of abuse. Thirtyone:eight can be contacted for advice in addition to SociaI Services;
• If the Adult at Risk is in immediate danger or has sustained a serious injury, contact the Emergency Services;
• Escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7

4.6 Spiritual Abuse of a Child, Youth or Adult at Risk

If there is a concern regarding spiritual abuse, the Safeguarding Coordinator will:

• Identify support services for the survivor i.e., counselling or other pastoral support
• Contact Thirtyone:eight and in discussion with them will consider appropriate action with regards to the scale of the concern
• Escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7

4.7 Procedures for responding to an allegation of abuse against a person who works with Children/Youth

If a disclosure of abuse or neglect is made against a worker (whether a volunteer or paid member of staff) whilst following the procedure outlined above, the Safeguarding Coordinator will:

• Follow, with the Leadership, the procedure in Section 9.2 of the policy (Working with offenders, those under investigation or thought to be a risk); and
• In accordance with Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) procedures will:
• In consultation with Thirtyone:eight or Children’s Social Services, decide whether the worker should be suspended
• Make a referral to a Designated Officer or LADO, whose role is to handle all allegations against adults who work with Children and Youth whether in a paid or voluntary capacity, and
• A referral should be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service for consideration of the person being placed on the barred list for working with Children or Adults at Risk. This decision will be made by the Designated Officer or LADO if they are involved
• Escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7

4.8 Procedures for responding to an allegation of abuse against a person who works with Adults at Risk

If an disclosure of abuse or neglect is made against a worker (whether a volunteer or paid member of staff) whilst following the procedure outlined above, the Safeguarding Coordinator will:

• Follow, with the Leadership, the procedure in Section 9.2 of the policy (Working with offenders, those under investigation or thought to be a risk); and
• In consultation with Adult Social Care, decide whether the worker should be suspended
• A referral should be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service for consideration of the person being placed on the barred list for working with Children or Adults at Risk. This decision should be informed by the Designated Officer or LADO if they are involved
• Escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7

4.9 Procedures for responding to an allegation of abuse or neglect against a person who attends the church

If an accusation is made against someone attending the church who is not a worker (neither a volunteer or paid member of staff), the Safeguarding Coordinator will follow the procedure outlined above in responding to the allegation. The Safeguarding Coordinator will also follow the procedure in Section 9.2 of the policy (Working with offenders, those under investigation or thought to be a risk).

The Safeguarding Coordinator will also escalate the concern to VCUKI if it is categorised as a Level 2 or 3 safeguarding incident, outlined in Appendix 7.

4.10 Reflective Incident Management

Following the investigation of any safeguarding incident, a Reflective Incident Management meeting will take place. The purpose of this meeting is to reflect on what happened, how the incident was dealt with and to discuss whether any steps can be taken to mitigate the risk of a similar safeguarding incident occurring in the future. This meeting will be arranged by the Safeguarding Coordinator who will ensure relevant parties, including the Senior Leaders, attend the meeting and engage in this process. If criminal charges are being brought, the Safeguarding Coordinator will wait until the case has been resolved before initiating this process. The scope of the meeting will include an overview of:

• What happened, where and when
• What made the incident a safeguarding incident
• What actions were taken, and an overview of whether any ongoing actions/monitoring is required
• How the incident has been resolved (if, indeed, it has been fully resolved)
• Learning from the incident, including any changes to practice or policy that need to be implemented to promote the safety of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk at SWLV

Section 5: Safe Recruitment

SWLV recognises that all adults who work with Children, Youth or Adults at Risk are in a position of trust. All those in positions of trust must understand the power this can give them over those they care for and the responsibility they have because of this relationship. It is vital that all workers ensure they do not, even unknowingly, use their position of power and authority inappropriately. They should always maintain professional boundaries and avoid behaviour which could be misinterpreted. As of April 2022, it is illegal for those in positions of trust in a faith setting to engage in sexual activity with a 16 or 17 year old under their care or supervision.

The Leadership will ensure all workers (including volunteers) with Children, Youth or Adults at Risk will be appointed, trained, supported and supervised in accordance with government guidance on safe recruitment. This includes ensuring that:

• There is a written job description / person specification for the post;
• Those applying have completed an application form and a self-declaration form;
• Those shortlisted have been interviewed;
• Safeguarding has been discussed at interview;
• Written or verbal (and written-up) references have been obtained, and followed up where appropriate;
• A disclosure and barring check has been completed (and will be updated every 3 years);
• Qualifications where relevant have been verified;
• A suitable training programme is provided for the successful applicant;
• The applicant has been given a copy of the church’s safeguarding policy for Children, Youth and Adults at Risk and knows how to report concerns.

Section 6: Safeguarding training

The Leadership is committed to providing ongoing safeguarding training and development opportunities for all workers; developing a culture of awareness of safeguarding issues to help protect everyone.

Leadership Staff: Training (Annual)
Foundational safeguarding training, such as the ‘Safeguarding Adults at risk of harm’ and ‘Safeguarding Children and Young People’ courses by Thirtyone:eight. Appropriate ongoing safeguarding training

Administration Staff/Trustees/ Leaders of Children/Youth and Adult Ministries/ Team members of Children, Youth and Adult Ministries: Training ( Every 3 Years)
Foundational safeguarding training, such as the ‘Safeguarding Adults at risk of harm’ and ‘Safeguarding Children and Young People’ courses by Thirtyone:eight. Appropriate ongoing safeguarding training

Section 7: Management of workers (paid staff, volunteers and trustees)

7.1 Codes of Conduct

As a Leadership we are committed to supporting all workers and ensuring they receive support and supervision. All workers are issued with a code of conduct either applying to Children, Youth or Adults at Risk, as relevant.

It is unacceptable for all workers to engage in any behaviour which might allow a sexual relationship or other forms of inappropriate relationships to develop with Children, Youth or Adults at risk with whom they are engaging.

As a place of worship, we follow the principles contained in the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. Therefore, we expect that all workers will report improper actions, including suspicions of abuse, to the Safeguarding Coordinator.

The following codes of conduct and guidance documents are supplemental to this safeguarding policy:

• Codes of Conduct and Safeguarding Guidelines towards Children, Youth .and Adults at Risk
• Guidelines on Relationship Building and Boundaries
• Effective Listening and Responding to a Disclosure of Abuse
• Online Safety Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy
• Position of Trust Statement
• Pastoral Care Policies

All codes of conduct and policies are available from the church office.

7.2 Practice Guidelines

As a church working with Children, Youth and Adults at Risk we wish to operate and promote good working practice. This will enable workers to run activities safely and develop healthy relationships. As well as a general code of conduct for workers we have also developed and are developing specific good practice guidelines, consent forms and logs for activities we are involved in.

Section 8: Working in partnership

As a church, SWLV works in partnership with a range of organisations. SWLV acknowledges that other organisations have different policies and practice guidelines for supporting Children, Youth and Adults at Risk, and managing safeguarding concerns. SWLV works with partner organisations to outline safeguarding expectations and develop safeguarding partnership agreements. Any organization that uses SWLV’s premises must have their own safeguarding policy that meets the standards set out in this safeguarding policy.

Section 9: Pastoral care and ongoing monitoring

9.1 Supporting those affected by abuse

The Leadership is committed to offering pastoral care, working with statutory agencies as appropriate, and supporting all those who have been affected by abuse or neglect who have contact with or are part of the church. We will prioritise the support offered to survivors, enabling them as far as possible, to access all our services in a safe way.

Whilst SWLV’s response to safeguarding matters will be consistent, the pastoral care offered in response may vary. Every person, and safeguarding incident, will be unique and therefore each situation that arises must be dealt with on an individual basis. The specific care provided is outlined in the Church’s Pastoral Care Policy, a copy of which can be requested from the church office. SWLV’s pastoral care is provided through small group leaders and where deemed necessary leadership staff of the church. If required, care may also be sought from other professionals, for example recommending that survivors discuss their concerns with a doctor or counsellor.

9.2 Working with offenders, those under investigation or thought to be a risk to Children, Youth or Adults at Risk

When someone attending the church is under investigation under this safeguarding policy, or is thought to be a risk to Children, Youth or Adults at Risk, the Safeguarding Coordinator and/or Senior Leaders will implement appropriate restrictions for that person to ensure the safety of others. This could include barring that individual from serving on the Children’s/Youth ministry teams, or not permitting them to attend activities where Adults at Risk may be present.

This may include the offer of pastoral care, which will be determined by the Safeguarding Coordinator/Senior Leaders. The Leadership will ensure that the situation is kept under review.

SWLV is committed to supporting everyone in the church, but survivors of abuse or neglect will be given priority in being protected and enabled to participate in the life of the church. SWLVrecognises that there may be circumstances where the alleged perpetrator also wishes to join, or continue participating in, the church alongside the survivor(s). In such circumstances, arrangements to restrict and monitor the alleged perpetrator must be entered into between the Church and the alleged perpetrator. If the alleged perpetrator does not consent to these arrangements, they will not be permitted to attend SWLV or any associated activities. It is acknowledged that there may be particular difficulties if the alleged perpetrator denies allegations or has not been prosecuted.

Depending on the specific circumstances, the Safeguarding Coordinator and/or Senior Leaders may need to consult and/or inform others. Where necessary, the Safeguarding Coordinator and/or Senior Leaders will take advice from the relevant statutory agencies and/or Thirtyone:eight, or another nominated advisor on who to consult/inform. These persons and organisations may include:

• Statutory agencies, including the Police;
• The person concerned;
• Persons nominated by the Leadership to take on a pastoral or monitoring role in relation to the person concerned;
• Leadership Staff of the church and/or workers of the church;
• Trustee responsible for Safeguarding;
• Trustees of the church, who may need to liaise with any of: VCUKI, the church’s insurance company; and
• Designated officer or LADO.

The situation must not be discussed with anyone other than those nominated above, other than on a need-to-know basis and on advice from the relevant statutory agencies.

Written records should be made in accordance with these procedures and kept in a secure place. Example forms to be used to make a written record are listed below and are supplemental to this safeguarding policy.

At any time, the Safeguarding Coordinator, Senior Leaders, Leadership Staff, any of the and Trustees of the Church are able to take advice on the situation from the Thirtyone:eight helpline or other nominated advisors.

The following is a list of practice guidance, template letters, example forms, agreements and written records which are supplemental to this safeguarding policy and for use when working with offenders, those under investigation or thought to be a risk to Children, Youth /or Adults at Risk:

• Notification to Follow Safeguarding Policy and Procedure
• Initial Case Summary
• Interim Safeguarding Agreement
• Case Management Update Tool
• Ongoing Safeguarding Agreement

This policy was agreed by the Senior Leaders and Trustees (the “Leadership”) and will be reviewed· annually.

Signed by
Neil Woodward: Senior Pastor & Chair of Trustees
Stephanie Bell: Trustee responsible for Safeguarding
Manny Garcia: Safeguarding Coordinator:

Date: 13th March 2023

Appendices

Appendix 1: Thirtyone:eight Ten Safeguarding Standards

Thirtyone:eight have developed a framework of ten safeguarding standards to support organizations in ensuring they have in place everything they need to make their environment safe.

1. Governance
Good governance helps an organisation prevent abuse and means it can respond quickly and with integrity when concerns arise

2. Culture
Having a safe and open culture creates good attitudes towards safeguarding and ensures it is taken seriously by all

3. Safeguarding policy
A working policy document sets the standards and expectations an organization has around safeguarding

4. Safer recruitment
Recruiting your workers safely creates a barrier to those who may pose a risk from getting access to vulnerable groups

5. Training and awareness
Raising awareness of safeguarding equips workers and service users to identify, prevent and respond to abuse

6. Working safely
Agreeing ways to work and communicate safely helps people keep themselves and others safe

7. Managing workers
Safely recruiting your workers creates a barrier to those who may pose a risk from getting access to vulnerable groups

8. Partnership working
Raising awareness of safeguarding equips workers and service users to identify, prevent and respond to abuse

9. Responding to concerns
Responding well to concerns means people can be protected from harm and action taken to stop abuse

10. Working with those who may pose a risk
Organisations that are open to all can support and work safely with those who may pose a risk

Appendix 2: Safeguarding for Children, Youth and Adults at Risk Statement

The following statement was agreed by the Safeguarding Coordinator, Senior Leaders (the “Leadership”) and Trustees on 13th March 2023:

• This church is committed to the safeguarding of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk and working to ensure their wellbeing
• We recognise that we all have a responsibility to help prevent the physical, sexual, psychological, financial and discriminatory abuse and neglect of Children, Youth and Adults at
• Risk and to report any such abuse that we discover or suspect
• We recognise the personal dignity and rights of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk and will ensure all our policies and procedures reflect this
• We believe all Children, Youth and Adults at Risk should enjoy and have access to every aspect of the life of the church, unless they pose a risk to the safety of those we serve
• We undertake to exercise proper care in the appointment and selection of all those who will work with Children, Youth and Adults at Risk
• We believe every Child, Youth and Adult at Risk should be valued, safe and happy. We want to make sure that Children, Youth and Adults at Risk we have contact with know this and are empowered to tell us if they are experiencing significant harm

We are committed to:

• Following the statutory, denominational and specialist guidelines in relation to safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk and will ensure that as a church all workers with Children, Youth and Adults at Risk will work within the agreed procedure of our safeguarding policy for Children, Youth and Adults at Risk
• Implementing the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Acts 1995 and 2005, Equality Act 2010 and all other relevant legislation
• Supporting, resourcing and training those who undertake th is work. Ensuring that everyone agrees to abide by these recommendations and the guidelines established by this church
• Supporting all in the church affected by abuse with survivors being prioritised, protected and enabled to participate in the life of the church as far as possible

We recognise:

• Children’s Social Services (or equivalent) has lead responsibility for investigating all allegations or suspicions of abuse where there are concerns about a Child or Youth. Adult Social Care (or equivalent) has lead responsibility for investigating all allegations or suspicions of abuse where there are concerns about an Adult at Risk
• Where an allegation suggests that a criminal offence may have been committed then the police should be contacted as a matter of urgency unless that is against the advice of Thirtyone:eight or a statutory agency
• Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility

We will review this statement and our policy and procedures annually.

A copy of this church’s safeguarding policy of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk is available from the church office.

Signed by Neil Woodward: Senior Pastor & Chair of Trustees
Stephanie Bell: Trustee responsible for Safeguarding
Manny Garcia: Safeguarding Coordinator:

Date: 13th March 2023

Appendix 3: Definitions

Safeguarding
Safeguarding means protecting people’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It is about individuals and organisations working together to prevent and stop both the risks and experience of abuse or neglect, while at the same time making sure the individual’s wellbeing is promoted including, where appropriate, having regard for their views, wishes, feelings and beliefs in deciding on any action.

Children
The legal definition of a Child is someone under the age of 18, according to the Children Act 1989.

Youth
For the purposes of this policy, we will use the term Youth for an individual between the ages of 11-18 years old.

Adults at Risk
For the purpose of this policy, the term Adults at Risk is used for ‘adults with care and support needs’ as defined by the Care Act 2014; adults to which local authority safeguarding duties apply in the Care Act 2014; persons who are 18 years old and over and:

• Are experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect; and
• Have care and support needs (whether or not the local authority is meeting any of those needs) and
• As a result of those care and support needs are unable to protect themselves from either the risk of, or the experience of abuse or neglect

SWLV
Abbreviation for South West London Vineyard.

Leadership Team
This refers to the pastoral staff team at SWLV.

Safeguarding Coordinator
SWLV has an appointed Safeguarding Coordinator, who is responsible for reporting concerns of abuse to statutory authorities and can act as an advocate who speaks for and on behalf of Children, Youth and Adults at Risk.

Thirtyone:eight
Thirtyone:eight are an independent Christian charity who equip organisations, including churches, with safeguarding tools to protect vulnerable people. Along with thousands of other organisations, SWLV is a member of Thirtyone:eight and is therefore able to access specialist support to ensure its safeguarding response is robust and comprehensive. Thirtyone:eight were consulted as part of the 2023 safeguarding policy review.

The Safeguarding Policy was updated, revised & reviewed in March 2023 as part of our commitment to an annual review.

The Safeguarding Policy has been independently reviewed and approved by thirtyone:eight

Safeguarding Policy

You can read the full South West London Vineyard Safeguarding Policy here:

South West London Vineyard Safeguarding Policy

Useful Contacts

Anyone affected by any issues addressed in the above may find the following contacts useful:

In an emergency, especially if someone is in immediate danger of harm, you should always call 999 straight away and ask for the police.

Thirtyone:eight
Whatever your concern – recent or non-recent, if it relates to safeguarding or even if you’re not sure – call us on 0303 003 1111. The Thirtyone:eight Safeguarding Helpline is staffed by trained professionals who provide safeguarding advice and guidance and operate an out of hours service for urgent calls.
Helpline: 0303 003 1111
www.thirtyoneeight.org

Association of Christian Counsellors (ACC)
Facilitate provision by Christians of quality counselling, psychotherapy and pastoral care.
https://www.acc-uk.org

British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Telephone: 01455 83300 https://www.bacp.co.uk

Minister & Clergy Sexual Abuse Service (MACSAS)
MACSAS supports women and men who have been sexually abused, as children or adults, by ministers, clergy or others under the guise of the Church.
Helpline: 08088 010340
http://www.macsas.org.uk

National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
If you’re an adult survivor of any form of child abuse, NAPAC is here for you. Taking a first step is difficult, but we can provide you with support and signposting on your road to recovery.
Support Line: 08088 010331
https://napac.org.uk

Samaritans
Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We’re here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Phone: 116 123
https://www.samaritans.org

The Survivors’ Trust
The Survivors’ Trust supports and empowers survivors of rape, sexual violence and childhood sexual abuse
https://www.thesurvivorstrust….