Declaration Towards a Safe Church

Declaration Towards a Safe Church Resources Towards a Safe Church
As a response to 2006 General Assembly Resolutions 6 and 40. Three resources are available, the material is intended for use by groups of adults in local congregations. *Living Together* focuses on areas of abuse of adults in the church which are not necessarily sexual. A companion resource, *Relating Together* focuses on sexual abuse and harassment. Life Together and Relating Together should be read as resources which stand alongside Good Practice - safeguarding children and young people. They are not alternatives. Who should have it? Church officers, ministers and elders consider how best it might be used. What might they do with it? Recognise it provokes useful conversation. Elders' meeting to make decision as how best to proceed. Acknowledge that this may give members of the congregation permission to talk about things they have wanted to air for a very long time.
LIFE TOGETHER A resource for local churches considering their response to the abuse of adults in the church	RELATING TOGETHER A resource for local churches considering their response to sexual abuse and harassment	WORSHIPPING TOGETHER Worship material for local churches for use in response to Relating and Living Together
Synod Advisers Appointed by the Synod are concerned representatives of the United Reformed Church who have volunteered and been trained to undertake this role. They will be prepared to discuss any relevant matter with individuals, however sensitive. Some matters may be dealt with at the local level. A Synod Advisor can give advice as to whether this is appropriate or if the matter should be referred to a wider church body. A Synod Adviser will listen carefully to the issues presented and provide information about alternative actions and whether a formal complaint is appropriate. The information given to the Synod Advisor will be treated in the strictest confidence. Care will be taken to respect and support all persons involved. The Synod has appointed an adviser who can help the church use the material. Henry Playle eastern.ylto@urc.org.uk
Further Helpful Resources Promoting a Safe Church - Church House Publishing Time for Action - Churches Together in Britain & Ireland Safe to Belong - The Baptist Union of Great Britain Safeguarding Adults - Churches Child Protection Advisory Service

In Brief: it is the policy of the United Reformed Church that local churches seek advice from their Synod on any issues of alleged sexual abuse or harassment.