A healthy church community is a space where people feel safe, valued, and comfortable exploring faith together. It’s deeply embedded in our calling as Christians to love and care for one another.
Creating this kind of environment depends on people across church life – parish safeguarding officers, clergy, youth and children’s workers, pastoral visitors and many others – but it is also a shared responsibility for all of us. Each of us has a part to play in ensuring that our worshipping communities are places of trust and welcome.
To support and encourage this vital ministry, the diocesan safeguarding team will be hosting a one-day gathering titled ‘Courage to care: Building safer worshipping communities together’ on 9 May. It will bring together those involved in safeguarding across the diocese to share learning, strengthen local connections and reflect on how safeguarding connects with the faith and values that shape our communities.
The day will begin with a keynote address from safeguarding researcher Dr Lisa Oakley, who will explore the sensitive but important issue of spiritual abuse. Drawing on research and lived experience, the talk will consider how worshipping communities can recognise, prevent and respond well to abuse within faith settings.
Attendees will be able to take part in a series of workshops covering topics such as trauma-informed practice, communicating safeguarding within church communities, supporting safe youth ministry, and navigating safeguarding in pastoral care. These sessions will offer practical insight and help participants consider what steps they can take within their own worshipping communities.
It will also provide opportunities to meet and connect with local organisations and support services, including those working in areas such as domestic abuse support, social care and community wellbeing. Building these partnerships can play an important role in helping churches respond effectively when support is needed.
The gathering is intended to be a moment of recognition and thanks for those who serve in safeguarding roles across our diocese.
Event details and sign up form→
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