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Safeguarding - Ripon Cathedral

Ripon Cathedral Safeguarding Policy

The cathedral policy embodies the principles enshrined in the Church of England’s House of Bishops’ policy statements.

The policy and its associated guidelines are intended to protect children and vulnerable adults in the cathedral and community.  By ‘safeguarding’ we mean the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults while they are visiting, volunteering or working for the cathedral. 


Contacts

Safeguarding Representative
Canon Claire Renshaw
01765 604108

Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor
0113 353 0257

Each person who works within Ripon Cathedral will agree to abide by these recommendations and the guidelines established by this cathedral.


National Helplines

  • NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
  • Childline: 0800 1111
  • Stop It Now: 0808 1000 900
  • NAPAC: 0808 801 0331
  • Samaritans: 116 123
  • Family Lives: 0808 800 2222
  • National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247
  • Respect Phoneline: 0808 802 4040
  • National Careline: 0800 0699 784

Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse in relation to the Church of England, the Church in Wales, or the Catholic Church of England and Wales. This could be abuse by someone who holds any role in the church or is linked to participating in a church-led activity or group.

If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have need to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent, unless you or someone else is in immediate danger. Safe Spaces can provide a range of help, including advocating with authorities and other agencies, giving emotional support, providing information (including information on church and police procedures), understanding your needs and working together on individual support plans.

Tel: 0300 303 1056


Safeguarding Complaints

Ripon Cathedral aims to ensure that all safeguarding concerns are dealt with carefully and in line with the National Practice Guidance.  We are committed to promoting a safer culture in the cathedral and regular training is undertaken by all clergy, officers and volunteers.

If for any reason that standard is not reached and a complaint is received, then we view that as an opportunity to learn and improve our practices.

If you are not satisfied with the handling of a safeguarding concern, please follow the complaints procedure.

Please note, that the procedure is not a process for the resolution of safeguarding concerns or allegations.  These should be reported to Canon Matthew, the Cathedral Safeguarding Representative.

It is important to note that disclosures, concerns or allegations about abuse should always be referred to the Cathedral Safeguarding Representative. If you are concerned that a child or adult is at immediate risk of harm, please contact the Police on 101 or your local Social Services team. 

This policy statement on safeguarding in the cathedral was adopted by the Chapter of Ripon Cathedral at its meeting held on 23rd November 2023.