Safeguarding

The care and protection of children, young people and adults at risk who are involved in church activities is the responsibility of the whole church. Everyone who participates in the life of Bridge Communities has a role to play in promoting a Safer Church for all. We

• Promote a safe environment and culture;
• Safely recruit and support all those with any responsibility relating those groups who are at increased risk of harm or abuse within the church;
• Respond promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegation
• Care pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons;
• Care pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons;
• Respond to those who may pose a present risk to others.

Safeguarding is an integral part of the mission and ministry of the church within the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich of which Bridge Communities / Lightwave is a part. Lightwave has adopted the Church of England’s House of Bishop’s Safeguarding Policy for children, young people and adults, ‘Promoting a Safer Church.’

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.