"Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all."
(Proverbs 31:8)
At Easthampstead Parish Church, safeguarding is a shared responsibility rooted in love, trust, and care. We believe every person, especially every child and vulnerable adult, should be safe, heard, and supported. Safeguarding is not just a policy. It is a commitment to protect the dignity and wellbeing of all who come through our doors.
The Rector and PCC has oversight of safeguarding and reviews our policy and practice annually.
Our Commitment
We follow the Church of England’s House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance. We also work in partnership with Bracknell Forest’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Arrangements (MASA). This means we cooperate with local authorities, health services, and police to protect those at risk and respond well when concerns arise.
As a recognised relevant agency, we share safeguarding concerns with statutory partners when needed. We do this with compassion, discretion, and in line with legal guidance. We care deeply about the wellbeing of our community and want to ensure that help reaches those who need it.
We also recognise our legal duty to have due regard to safeguarding guidance, as required by the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016. Everyone who serves here—clergy, staff, and volunteers—takes safeguarding seriously and acts with care and attention.
Church of England Safeguarding Guidance
What We Do
- We listen carefully to anyone who shares a concern.
- We respond with kindness and clarity, following local thresholds and referral pathways.
- We share information lawfully and respectfully, in accordance with GDPR and safeguarding exceptions.
- We ensure our clergy, staff, and volunteers receive regular safeguarding training.
- We review our safeguarding practice annually, seeking to grow in wisdom and care.
What to do if you have a concern
If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, then please report the Safeguarding Concern by clicking on the button below. You can also seek advice from the Parish Safeguarding Officer, Diocesan Advisor, or if necessary report the matter to the Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police without delay.
Our Safeguarding Officer
If you have a concern, you can speak to our Parish Safeguarding Officer, Geraldine Samuelsson-Brown, or the Rector. They are trained to listen, respond, and guide you toward support.
You can also contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Team for further help.
Working with Bracknell Forest Safeguarding Partners
Easthampstead Parish Church is recognised as a relevant agency under Bracknell Forest’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Arrangements (MASA). We work alongside local authorities, health services, and police to protect children and vulnerable adults.
If you need to contact Bracknell Forest Council’s safeguarding team directly, you can do so here:
Bracknell Forest Safeguarding Partnership
For urgent concerns about a child, call: 01344 352005 (Children’s Social Care)
For urgent concerns about an adult, call: 01344 351500 (Adult Social Care)
A Word to Survivors
If you have experienced harm, we want you to know that you matter. Your voice matters. We will listen, believe you, and walk with you toward safety and healing.
You can access 'Care and Support' details here:
