TSSF Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding Policy

Third Order, Society of Saint Francis

Our Safeguarding Policy

TSSF is committed to safeguarding and has adopted the House of Bishop’s Safeguarding Policy Statement for Children, Young People and Adults set out in Promoting a Safer Church (2017).

As an Acknowledged Religious Community by the Church of England. TSSF has adopted the Church of England’s  Safeguarding in Acknowledged Religious Communities.

Part of Franciscan community life is praying and caring for members of the Order and then extending this action to everyone and the whole of God’s creation. Such cultures help members feel comfortable about speaking up about concerns and become active members of the Order. There is an expectation by TSSF that all those who have a role abide by the safeguarding procedures and complete safeguarding training.

Unfortunately, in every walk of life sometimes people behave badly and abuse does happen. When concerns about this type of behaviour arise it’s everyone’s responsibility to raise their concerns with the safeguarding team so action can be taken. If you wish to discuss a safeguarding concern either current or non-recent there are a number of options for you:

  • You can speak with the Area Safeguarding Advocate or Area Minister.
  • You can contact our Chapter Safeguard Lead , Chris Wren, csl@tssf.org.uk,
  • If the concern relates to a Church of England Diocese you can speak with the safeguarding team in that Diocese. You can click here to find details for the Diocesan Safeguarding Teams in the Church of England.
  • If the concern relates to another denomination or organisation there should be details about their safeguarding lead on their website.
  • If you would like to speak with a separate organisation Safe Spaces England and Wales is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales.

As a Religious Order, we take our Safeguarding duty of care, very seriously and in the spirit of our Franciscan calling, we aim to care for both our own members but also members of the public that we engage with. Therefore, TSSF has a Provincial Safeguarding Team. This is composed of a TSSF Provincial Designated Safeguarding Person as well as a Chapter Safeguarding Lead member. In addition, we have an agreement with local diocesan safeguarding advisors and the National Safeguarding Team for advice and support.

 

National Church Safeguarding Policies and Guidance