Safeguarding

PROMOTING A SAFE CHURCH

The churches of Rushen Parish are committed to safeguarding children and young people, vulnerable adults and those in abusive relationships. We aim to create a safe environment where children and young people are nurtured and protected and where all people, especially those who may be vulnerable for any reason, are able to worship and pursue their faith journey with encouragement and in safety.

You can view the Parish’s Safeguarding Policy Statement here.

Rushen Parish follows the national legal and procedural framework for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and Church of England policy and practice. The Parish Safeguarding Handbook can be viewed here.

We will act promptly on any complaints made and work in close partnership with police and social care services where children or vulnerable adults have been harmed or are at risk of harm or mistreatment. We provide safe recruitment, training and support to our voluntary and paid workers with children and vulnerable adults. We care for those who have been abused in the past and minister appropriately to those who have abused.

What to do if you have a safeguarding concern

If you have information about a safeguarding situation where a child or adult is in immediate danger, or requires immediate medical attention, call emergency services on 999.

If you do not think there is a risk of immediate harm, you should still speak to an official about your concern as soon as possible.

The Parish Safeguarding Officer is Rhiannon Manning who can be contacted on 832275/464117 or by email at psorushen@sodorandman.im

The Diocesan Safeguarding Support Officer is Lisa Morris who can be contacted on 07624 494688 or by email at lisa.morris@sodorandman.im.

Finding Support

We understand that reporting abuse may be very difficult and distressing and it may add to your hurt by our not being able to immediately assist you. Therefore here are the contact details of other agencies that are available to assist either on a 24-hour basis or through specialist helplines and services:

  • Child-line: 0800 1111 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are a child or young person and are worried about anything.
  • Isle of Man Samaritans: 116123 (opening times vary). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.