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Safeguarding

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In their mission to proclaim the love and saving grace of Christ, the Berkshire and Hampshire Borders Methodist Circuit is committed to the care and nurture of and respectful pastoral ministry with all children, young people and adults. The Circuit Safeguarding Policy states the steps that the Circuit is making to ensure their safeguarding and protection and establishing safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is informed awareness and vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.

Each Methodist Church of the Circuit annually reviews the implementation of their safeguarding policy following the guidelines of the Methodist Church. Church Councils, supported by their Ministers, have a specific role and responsibility in creating a safe space within our churches. Churches carefully select their workers of children, young people and vulnerable adults in line with the safer recruitment principles of the Methodist Church.

Who to talk to

Each church seeks to challenge any form of abuse in the protection and safeguarding of children, young people and adults, following statute, guidance and recognised good practice. If you have a concern, please observe the following:

  • Your local church has a Safeguarding Officer who is appointed each year. If you talk to your Minister, a Church steward or a member of your Church Council, then they should be able to tell you who currently fills that role. They are a good person to talk to if you have queries about local church safeguarding. We train those people on a regular basis and keep them up to date with information to ensure that they can advise on all matters regarding Safeguarding, or should know who to refer you to.
  • We have a dedicated Circuit Safeguarding Team who manage safeguarding within our Circuit. They can help and support you with a variety of matters. If you would like to get in touch with them, contact Martin Borgars (Circuit Compliance Officer) on 07885 842231 or email safeguarding@bhbcircuit.org.uk
  • Our District has a dedicated Safeguarding Officer who manages more serious matters. Jane Fisher can be contacted on 07840 186814 or if less urgent by email at safeguarding@sdmc.org.uk
  • You can also find contact details for the Methodist Church Safeguarding Team here

Further resources and information

Local children's services: 0300 555 1384
Local adult social care services: 0300 555 1386
Local social care out of hours services: 0300 555 1373
Police: 999 (emergency) 101 (non-emergency)
NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000
Childline: 0800 1111

Quick Links

Registered Charity Number: 1134891

Contact Us

office@bhbcircuit.org.uk
0118 958 1505

Berkshire & Hampshire Borders Circuit Office
84 Queens Road
Reading
RG1 4BW

Circuit Map

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