Last Updated 24/04/02 by Nathan and Mark, The Well, RBC.

POLICY STATEMENT

ON CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND THE CHURCH

This policy statement will be read and reviewed annually at the September church meeting where progress in carrying it out will be monitored.

Children and young people are a vital part of our church today. They have much to give as well as to receive. We will listen to them. As we nurture them in worship, learning and in community life, we will respect their wishes and feelings. We will also seek to enable children who are disadvantaged and young people with disabilities to participate fully in the life of the church.

As members of this church we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection and safekeeping of all, especially children and young people.

It is the responsibility of each one of us to prevent the physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children and young people, and to report any abuse suspected, witnessed or disclosed.

We recognise that our work with children and young people is the responsibility of the whole church.

The church is committed to supporting, resourcing and training those who work with children and young people and to monitor and support their work.

The church is committed to following the Home Office Code of Practice Safe from Harm and adopts the guidelines and procedures published by the Baptist Union of Great Britain in its booklet Safe to Grow (a copy of which is kept in the youth office).

All workers with children and young people must be made aware of the recommendations of Safe to Grow, and undertake to observe them. Each shall be given a copy of the church's agreed procedure and good practice guidelines.

As part of our commitment to children and young people the church has appointed the Paul Lancaster to be their advocate.