Providing a safe environment for all who are part of our churches is a vital part of how we work within EBA. We offer regular training events across the Association, details can be found here. If there is not an event planned near you in the near future please contact EBA Secretary and we will do our best to offer the training you need.
In addition to training there is a comprehensive collection of forms, model procedures, policies and service ideas available on the Baptists Together website. This includes advice about applying for DBS checks and an excellent series of Guides on a range of specific safeguarding issues.
Diane Forsyth is the person in EBA who takes the lead on safeguarding issues so if you have a query or an issue arises please contact her on safeguarding@easternbaptist.org.uk or on 07735 860804. if Diane is unavailable please leave a message and she will get back to you as soon as possible.
The Deputy Association contact is Daniel Beckett, if the lead is on leave or unavailable then the deputy will be available to fulfil their role 07909 767505, daniel.beckett@godmanchesterbaptist.org.
You can also get free advise from thirtyone:eight (formally CCPAS) on 0303 003 11 11 or their out of hours service, but please ONLY USE THIS IN AN EMERGENCY
We advise your Designated Person for Safeguarding or your Safeguarding lead person to contact Diane for advice and support if a particular safeguarding issue arises that you feel may need to be reported to the authorities. However, IF THE SITUATION IS URGENT DON’T DELAY, CONTACT THE AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY and let Diane know afterwards.
The role of Designated Person for Safeguarding is considered to be a key appointment in your church helpful guides and resources can be found on the Baptists Together website.
Baptists Together have recently added a guide on ‘Recording and livestreaming services and events: Guidelines for churches‘ this can be accessed here
Eastern Baptist Association Safeguarding Policy July 2019
