This November 17, we're inviting all churches in the diocese to come together and mark Safeguarding Sunday. It’s a special opportunity for us as a community to pause, reflect, and have a conversation about creating safer spaces for everyone in our churches.
This isn’t just about policies or procedures – it’s about making sure everyone, no matter their age or background, feels truly safe and valued in our worshipping communities. It’s also a time to express our gratitude to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our churches safe, supporting and protecting all who walk through our doors.
On Safeguarding Sunday, we encourage you to take a moment in your service to listen, share, and prayerfully consider how we can all be part of making our churches places of welcome, care, and safety for everyone.
The theme and focus for this year is – ‘Let’s talk about it’- to encourage churches to talk about how communities can work together to prevent abuse and create a world where every child and adult can feel and be safe.Let’s celebrate the good work being done and keep the conversation going, so that together we can continue to build a church where everyone can feel safe, seen, and supported.The ecumenical initiative from specialist safeguarding charity thirtyone:eight provides bespoke resources including films and animations, prayers, preaching notes, children's activity sheets, hymns and songs and a safeguarding pledge.
Speaking on the importance of safeguarding Bishop David said:
"Each day, throughout the year, many dedicated clergy and volunteers lead the essential work of making our parishes safer places for all. Safeguarding Sunday is an opportunity for us to express our gratitude for their dedication and to reflect on the shared responsibility we all have in safeguarding.
"To all those who join me in this important work across our diocese, I hope you recognise the special privilege we have in protecting and nurturing our church communities. Safeguarding is not just a task; it is at the heart of our calling as disciples of Christ. It is central to living out the Gospel and sharing the love of Jesus—in both our words and our actions."
Watch this film to find out more about how your parish can get involved in Safeguarding Sunday this year.