Here at Woodlands Safeguarding of our children, youth and adults with additional care and support needs is not an add on to a host of other ministries but is an integral part of the life of our church.

For us Safeguarding flows from the very heart of the Gospel. Jesus consistently welcomed, protected and valued every persons unique worth as being made in the image of God and therefore deserving of dignity, respect and compassion. For us, Safeguarding is an expression of loving our neighbour and this is why we seek to create and embed a safeguarding culture that is safe, caring and also transparent. We are committed to and accept accountability for good safeguarding practices that will reduce the risk of harm as a result of abuse, exploitation or neglect. Such practices that include:

• Adopting the Safeguarding Policies and guidelines of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
• Adherence to Woodlands Presbyterian Church Safeguarding Policy with review of same every 3 years.
• Safe Recruitment Procedures for all leaders and volunteers
• Provision of 3 yearly Safeguard Training for all leaders and volunteers
• A culture that helps raise awareness and enables early intervention
• A robust reporting pathway to follow when concerns are raised
• The appointment of a Safeguarding Elder to present Safeguarding matters at every meeting of the Kirk Session and provide support to the Designated Person who is trained in promoting a safeguarding culture, overseeing safeguarding practices and acting upon any concerns raised.
• Pastoral care and support from the Safeguarding Team and Minister.
• An annual review of our safeguarding practices to examine what we are doing well and what we could do better.

We recognize that harm can and does occur and therefore we seek to be a church were concerns can be raised without fear, where people are listened to and any comments, suggestions or complaints are taken seriously. We are committed to responding appropriately to any safeguarding concerns raised, to work with statutory authorities when required and to offer pastoral care to those who have been hurt.

Safeguarding Team

Please know you can contact our Safeguarding Team

Contact our Safeguarding Team at:
safeguarding@​woodlandschurch.co.uk