The PCC’s Safeguarding Officer, Sara Day, addressed the congregation:
“ We have all heard on many occasions that, tragically, churches as well as other organisations have failed in the past to protect children and vulnerable people from those who abuse them.
For some time now the Church of England has put in place stringent requirements on all those who have dealings with children and vulnerable, to be aware of the possible threats to them and to undergo training to recognise the threats and to know what to do if such a situation should arise. Every effort is being made to ensure that children and everyone is safe inside and outside the church.
It is the responsibility of all members to have a care for each other and on our website there is a helpful section: Good Practical Guidelines. Should you be concerned in any way then you can contact Michael, Christine, Susan or me.”
The congregation then joined together in prayer.