Safeguarding

Safeguarding is at the heart of our Christian faith. We believe that every person is uniquely made in the image of God and restored to life in its fullness through Jesus Christ.

Because we hold this belief, we are committed to ensuring that our church is a place where that fullness of life can flourish, free from harm or exploitation

What is Safeguarding?

In the Anglican Church San Pedro & Sotogrande, safeguarding is the practical mechanism by which we promote a safe culture. It is not just a set of rules; it is our active commitment to:

  • Protection: Implementing rigorous procedures to prevent the physical, emotional, or spiritual abuse of children and vulnerable adults.

  • Empowerment: Ensuring everyone in our community knows their rights and feels confident that their voice will be heard.

  • Accountability: Following the professional standards set by the Diocese in Europe and the Church of England, ensuring our clergy and volunteers are trained, vetted, and supported.

  • Action: Responding with integrity and compassion whenever a concern is raised, working alongside local European authorities and diocesan professionals to ensure justice and healing.

Safeguarding is how we "watch over one another in love." It is the framework that allows us to be a truly welcoming, open, and healthy Christian community.

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People's hands painted with red paint, overlapping and creating a heart shape against a dark background.

A Culture of Informed Vigilance

We strive to create a culture of informed vigilance. This means that safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone in our community, not just a designated committee.

  • We are Informed: Our volunteers and clergy undergo regular Diocese-approved training and background checks.

  • We are Vigilant: We remain alert to the well-being of those around us and are committed to responding properly to any concerns of abuse or neglect.

Read our Safeguarding Policy
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If a child or adult is in immediate danger, please contact emergency services on 112

If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advice from our Safeguarding Officer (or Chaplain):

  • Diocesan Safeguarding Team: You can also contact the Diocese in Europe Safeguarding Team directly at +44 (0)207 898 1159 or via the Diocesan Safeguarding Website.

If You Have a Concern

A close-up selfie of a woman with short white hair, wearing glasses and a gray turtleneck sweater, smiling in front of an orange background. This is our safeguarding officer Jean
A smiling man with short hair, our chaplain Tony Carroll smiling outside Iglesia Sotogrande