Many of you will have been involved in the synodal process, and we know from the feedback both locally and nationally that many significant questions and issues were raised around safeguarding, ranging from disappointment and concern over past events, the impact on both individuals and the reputation of the church, as well as concern over what needs to be done in the future.
More recently we have seen the release of the final report from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), which itself highlighted the terrible and damaging impact on children and families caused by abusers.
Whilst looking back, this paints a very grim picture of society as a whole. Looking forward both nationally and locally there is a great deal of work undertaken both in the voluntary and statutory sector to prevent abuse from occurring, and to work with and support those who have been hurt in the past. We as a Diocese are playing our part in that not only within the Church, but in wider society.
Being aware that many of you may have questions around how safe is my church, what are the implications arising from the IICSA report, and what about safeguarding and the synodal journey, we have decided to host an online event which will be led by Robert Brown, the Senior Safeguarding Professional employed by the Diocese. If you are interested then please join us.
The event will take place on Monday 9th January between 6:00pm and 7:30pm. If you wish to attend then please sign up via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/synodal-journey-a-conversation-about-safeguarding-tickets-471079791337 so that we can send the Zoom meeting details to you. This will also provide you with the opportunity to highlight any questions that you would like to be answered at the meeting.
Should you have any questions or concerns in the interim then please contact the Safeguarding Office on 01364 645430 or e-mail safeguarding@prcdtr.org.uk