Safeguarding & Policies

The safety and wellbeing of everyone in our church community, especially children and vulnerable adults, is our highest priority.

The Church of England

Our Commitment to Safety

At St Matthew's, we are committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment for all people, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We take our safeguarding responsibilities seriously and follow the Church of England's safeguarding policies and procedures.

Everyone who works with children, young people, or vulnerable adults in our church has been safely recruited, trained, and undergoes regular DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks.

Our Policies

Download and review our safeguarding and privacy policies

Safeguarding Policy

Our comprehensive policy for protecting children and vulnerable adults.

Promoting a Safer Church

The Church of England's safeguarding policy statement for children, young people and adults.

Our Safeguarding Team

Meet the people responsible for safeguarding at St Matthew's

Parish Safeguarding Officer

Jeremy Hobson

Minister

Our designated safeguarding lead responsible for coordinating safeguarding matters and providing guidance.

Available on request
jeremy@pondersend.church
Deputy Safeguarding Officer

Kirstie Reid

Parish Safeguarding Officer

Supports the Parish Safeguarding Officer and provides additional expertise and oversight.

Available on request
safeguardingpondersend@gmail.com

How to Report a Concern

If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child or vulnerable adult, please speak up. Your concern could protect someone from harm.

Contact Our Safeguarding Team

Speak to our Parish Safeguarding Officer or Deputy in person after a service, or contact them via:

safeguardingpondersend@gmail.com
Contact details available on request

Diocesan Safeguarding Team

You can also contact the London Diocese Safeguarding Team directly:

020 7932 1224
safeguarding@london.anglican.org

In an Emergency

If someone is in immediate danger, always call the police:

999

For immediate emergencies

Remember: All reports are taken seriously and handled with appropriate confidentiality. It's always better to share a concern than to stay silent.