Safeguarding
The Parochial Church Council of St James the Great, Thorley is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults.
We aim to create an environment in which children and young people are nurtured and protected, and in which everyone is able to worship and pursue his or her journey of faith in safety.
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We follow the national legal and procedural framework for safeguarding together with related Church of England policy and practice. In particular, we have adopted the House of Bishops’ safeguarding policy as laid out in Promoting a Safer Church and adhere to the guidance in the Parish Safeguarding Handbook.
If you have any concern about the church-related welfare of a child, young person or vulnerable adult in the Parish of St James the Great, Thorley, you should in the first instance contact:
Maureen Hargrave
Parish Safeguarding Officer
Gaz Tracey
Rector
Jeremy Hirst
Diocesan Safeguarding Officer
If your concern arises during a church activity or group meeting, you should, if appropriate, discuss the matter discreetly with the activity/group leader, who will then make the onward contact.
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If your concern relates to abuse or neglect in a family, household or community setting, you should report the matter to the relevant Local Authority or the Police. In Hertfordshire, such a concern in respect of a child or young person can be reported to Children’s Social Care on 0300 123 4043 (24 hrs), or in respect of an adult to Adult Social Services on 0300 123 4042 (24hrs). The Police can be contacted on 101 to report a concern that does not require an emergency response.
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In all cases, if you believe a child, young person or adult is in immediate danger of significant or serious harm you should contact the emergency services on 999.