Safeguarding
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. We are committed to ensuring that our churches are places where all people are welcomed, valued, and protected.
At St Andrew's, we are committed to promoting a safe environment and culture for all. We take safeguarding seriously and work to ensure that our churches are welcoming, supportive, and safe places for children, young people, and adults.
We follow the safeguarding policies and guidance of the Church of England and our Diocese and are committed to responding promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns.
If you have any safeguarding concerns, need advice, or wish to speak to one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers, please contact the Church Office. All enquiries will be treated sensitively and directed to the appropriate safeguarding lead.
Our Commitment
We are committed to:
- Promoting a safer environment and culture.
- Safely recruiting and supporting those who work with children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
- Responding promptly to safeguarding concerns and allegations.
- Caring pastorally for victims and survivors of abuse.
- Supporting those affected by safeguarding concerns.
- Working with statutory agencies and the Diocese where appropriate.
Parish Safeguarding Officers
St Andrew's, Congresbury with Puxton and Hewish
Ruth Wratten
Parish Safeguarding Officer
St Andrew's, Banwell
Maggie McCarthy
Parish Safeguarding Officer
For all safeguarding enquiries, concerns, or requests for support, please contact:
Church Office
Email: admin@newcreationchurches.org.uk
Telephone: 01934 833126
Diocesan Safeguarding Team
If you would prefer to speak directly with the Diocese, or if your concern relates to a member of church leadership, you may contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Team.
Safeguarding Team
Email: safe.guarding@bathwells.anglican.org
Telephone: 01749 670777
Diocesan Safeguarding Manager
Ben Goodhind
Telephone: 01749 588917
Further information and support can be found on the Diocese of Bath and Wells safeguarding pages.
If a child, young person, or adult is in immediate danger or at risk of significant harm, please contact the Police on 999 immediately.
Safeguarding Policies
Our safeguarding policies are reviewed regularly and approved by the Parochial Church Council (PCC).
You can view our current safeguarding policies below:
- St Andrew's, Congresbury with Puxton and Hewish Safeguarding Policy (Approved November 2025)
- St Andrew's, Banwell Safeguarding Policy (Approved November 2025)
[Insert links to safeguarding policy documents]
Safer Recruitment and Training
We are committed to ensuring that all those who work with children, young people, and vulnerable adults are safely recruited, appropriately trained, and well supported.
Those undertaking eligible roles complete the relevant safeguarding training required by the Church of England and receive ongoing support in their ministry and service.
Reporting a Concern
If you have a concern about the welfare of a child, young person, or adult, please contact the Church Office or one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers as soon as possible.
All concerns will be taken seriously and handled sensitively, confidentially, and appropriately in accordance with Church of England safeguarding guidance.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and we are committed to ensuring that our churches remain safe places where all are welcome, valued, and respected.