It is with mixed feelings that I find myself writing my last message to you as Parish Safeguarding Officer. After serving in this role for the past five years I am stepping down at the end of October. It has been both a challenging and a very rewarding role – and one that I could not have carried out on my own. I want to take this opportunity to thank members of the Ministry Team for their support for safeguarding. I am especially indebted to Rosie, the only remaining member of the Ministry Team who was in post when I was first appointed. I was very green when I started as PSO, and I learnt so much from Rosie in those early days. Her strong commitment to ensuring that safeguarding measures are in place to protect children who take part in our various activities was, and still is, a huge encouragement to me.
I would also like to thank the many volunteers who so freely give of their time to support activities involving children, youth and vulnerable adults. They have all undergone DBS checks and safeguarding training to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all involved in the church. I am also grateful to members of the church family who generously provide support to individuals who are experiencing difficulties in life. I could not have carried out this role without your help.
Although Mark as our Vicar and I as PSO oversee safeguarding, we do so on behalf of the PCC who are ultimately responsible. I would like to thank PCC and the Wardens, who have served over the past five years, for ensuring that safeguarding is integrated into the very fabric of church life.
As I write this message we have yet to identify a replacement for me. I would ask you to join me and the Ministry Team in praying that the person of God’s choosing will be called to this important role in serving our whole church community. It an immensely rewarding role and well supported through help and advice from the Diocesan Safeguarding team. I will be happy to support the new person(s) in transitioning into this role.
Finally, I would like to remind us all that we serve a God who cares deeply for the vulnerable. The story of the Good Samaritan reminds us of our responsibilities to care for others in need. In Matthew Chapter 25, Jesus also urges us to care for the hungry, thirsty, lonely, sick, and prisoners, reminding us that in caring for the vulnerable ‘Truly, I tell you that whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of mine, you did for me’. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and looking after the vulnerable in our church community remains a central part of how we all serve our Lord.
Kate Gerrish
