SAFEGUARDING AND ABUSE CONCERNS

Julie Robson is our Parish Safeguarding Officer, appointed by the PCC, to act on its behalf in taking action should abuse ever be suspected or disclosed.

She reports to the PCC, arranges safeguarding training, and ensures DBS checks are up to date.

Julie’s email address is: office@upperkerne.org.uk. She can also be contacted by phone: 07947892805.

The Upper Skerne’s detailed safeguarding policy is that of the Diocese of Durham, a copy of which can be obtained from Julie. A one-page summary of the church’s commitments on safeguarding is displayed in each of our churches on the Promoting a Safer Church Poster.

When should you contact Julie?

• If you suspect abuse, or are told about abuse, you should report it to Julie who will ensure your concern is taken seriously
• Do not delay as this could leave a child, young person or vulnerable adult unprotected against further abuse
• Please do not attempt to deal with the problem alone

Julie will not:

• Deal with the problem alone
• Press a child, young person or vulnerable adult for details of the alleged abuse
• Ask probing, leading, or suggestive questions
• On receipt of third party information, contact the person alleged to have been abused
• Contact the alleged abuser

Julie will:

• Contact the appropriate individuals or organisations who can best help
• Share information only on a strictly need-to-know basis                                                                   

Concerns can also be raised with the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, Mrs Beth Miller – she can be contacted as follows:

Address: Cuthbert House, Stonebridge, Durham DH1 3RY

Email: beth@bethmillerisw.co.uk or beth.miller@durham.anglican.org

Mobile: 07968 034075

If you are unable to speak to the Safeguarding Adviser and a child, young person or adult is at immediate risk of harm please call 999.

Complaints about how a safeguarding matter has been dealt with:

If you are not happy about how a safeguarding matter has been dealt with and you cannot resolve the issue or concern with the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser you should, in the first instance, contact the Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Group;

Simon Hackett – (Independent Chair of Safeguarding Advisory Panel) Address: Cuthbert House, Stonebridge, Durham DH1 3RY.