Statement of commitment to safeguarding

We are committed to providing a safe, caring environment for everyone. We believe every person should feel valued, safe, and treated with dignity and respect. Safeguarding is the responsibility of our entire church community, and our leadership works to ensure everyone in our care is protected and their rights are maintained. Everyone in our community has a responsibility to help prevent the abuse and neglect of children and adults, respond promptly to concerns for well-being and report any disclosed or suspected abuse in accordance with procedures outlined below. We endorse and adopt this safeguarding policy in accordance with national legislation, statutory guidance, and local safeguarding procedures, along with practical guidance issued by Elim nationally through the National Safeguarding Team in conjunction with the Irish Leadership Team. This policy and accompanying practical guidance are informed by relevant legislation such as The Children Order (NI) 1995, Criminal Law Act (NI) 1967, Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007, Co-operating to Safeguard Children & Young People in Northern Ireland (Department of Health 2017), and, although not fully applicable to Northern Ireland, the Equality Act 2010.