Child Protection Page

The Parish of Norton Letchworth

Keeping our Children and Young People Safe

          At Norton Parish we value the children and young people who come to our Sunday School and weekday activities and we are committed to giving them the best possible care and provision. A full copy of our Child Protection Policy is available for anyone to look at from the Church Office. When working with those under the age of 18, please bear in mind these key points:

1)      Only those appointed by the group leader should work with children’s groups. 

2)    Group leaders or helpers should never be alone with a child or group of children. This includes situations when giving a lift to a child or if they visit a leader’s home.

3)    Physical contact is a good and healthy thing when socially acceptable and appropriate, and in a public place. Any physical contact should be initiated by the child, so that we can be sure they are comfortable with it, and it relates to the needs of the child and not the adult worker. Avoid contact which could be seen as inappropriate or when no other adults are present.

4)    Parents should be asked to give consent for their children to attend normal activities, and special permission should be sought for any trips. Information about a child’s medical or other special needs, address, contact details and emergency contact details should be kept for all children regularly attending groups.

5)    If a child reports that they are being abused, or are in any danger, or if you have reason to suspect that this is the case, then follow these guidelines: Don’t ask questions of the child, just listen and reassure them. Always take any such disclosure seriously and act upon it immediately. Share your concerns with the Parish Child Protection Co-ordinator (Carmen), the Vicar (John), the curate (vacant). If you don’t feel able to talk to these then you can ring the diocesan representative and others. 

Vicar: John Luscombe                                                     01462 685059 

Curate: 

Child Protection Co-ordinator: Carmen Luscombe      01462 685059     

Diocesan Representative:                                               01299 841269

Children School & Families:                                            0300 1234043 

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