Safeguarding

We have included a summary of our Safeguarding Policy. However, you can download the full Safeguarding Policy here.

Safeguarding Summary

If you suspect abuse might have occurred:

• Report it as soon as possible to a nominated person whose contact details can be found in MyGerrardStreet. The nominated persons are:
  - Alistair Logan
  - Nicola Logan
• Make notes in writing on what has happened, and give that to the nominated person.
• Don’t discuss the matter with anyone else. It is confidential.

If a child wants to talk about abuse:

• Avoid looking or sounding shocked or disbelieving.
• Try to remain calm and sympathetic. Look at the young person while talking.
• Do not promise confidentiality – tell the young person that you will need to tell someone else.
• Don’t push for more information, but gently repeat back to the young person what they have said to you to ensure you have heard correctly. They will often respond by giving more information.
• Tell the young person they were right to talk about it.
• Write down what was said soon afterwards, in the young person’s own words if possible, and pass it on to a nominated person.

Take care when using electronic communication and social media:

• Electronic communication is primarily for organising and information sharing. Have all conversations of any length or depth face-to-face.
• Stay transparent whenever possible. For example, write on someone’s Facebook wall, rather than send them a message. Don’t delete any private messages you get from youth.
• If you add a young person as a friend on a social media network, it is your responsibility to ensure that all content on your profile is appropriate. Otherwise do not add them. We are to be above reproach.
• Do not keep photos of young people. If asked to take photos of an event, download them on to a church computer and delete them from personal devices at the earliest opportunity.
• If you’re confused on these rules, please chat to one of the ministry leaders. If you’re concerned about the wellbeing of a young person due to messages you have received, speak to a designated person.