Historical incident
Some time ago we received a safeguarding complaint regarding abuse that took place in the 1960s by a lay person connected with our church.
The complaint was followed up by the Diocesan Safeguarding Team. It is now clear to us that the church authorities at the time failed in their duty to protect the individual concerned. We are sorry on behalf of KCM for the suffering and harm caused, and we recognise the courage they have shown in coming forward as a survivor of sexual abuse all these years later.
Churches should always be places in which people can worship, build community and thrive in safety. In light of this complaint, we have reviewed our church safeguarding policy and practices to ensure they are up to standard.
If you have any safeguarding concerns relating to this incident, or any other, whether in the past or in the present-day, please speak to our vicar Revd Atalie Gaines 01707 661266.
Please be assured that any safeguarding concerns raised will be treated with utmost sensitivity. If you would like to know more about our safeguarding measures, please contact our Parish Safeguarding Officer: Helen Schmitz safeguarding@kcm-church.org.uk or Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor Jez Hirst 01727 818107, 07867 350886
The Church of King Charles the Martyr, Potters Bar is committed to and will champion the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults both in society as a whole and in our own community. We fully accept, endorse and will implement the principles enshrined in The Children Act 1989 that the welfare of the child is paramount. We will foster and encourage best practice within our community by setting standards for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults and by supporting parents in the care of their children. We will work with statutory bodies, voluntary agencies and other faith communities to promote the safety and well being of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We are committed to acting promptly whenever a concern is raised about a child or young person or vulnerable adult or about the behaviour of an adult, and will work with the appropriate statutory body when an investigation into child abuse or other abuse is necessary.
KCM Safeguarding Policy Promoting a Safer Church
If there is immediate danger please call 999 or contact our safeguarding officer: safeguarding@kcm-church.org.uk
Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor: Jez Hirst 01727 818107 or 07867 350886 or email: safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org
Hertfordshire County Council Safeguarding. Children: 0300 123 4043; Adults: 0300 123 4042