Where a safeguarding concern or allegation is made against someone who is not a Church Officer, Safeguarding Officers should make every effort to signpost, refer or enable access to appropriate support for the person raising the allegation and the complainant. Sometimes, this might be done by a Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO) or a different designated safeguarding volunteer or member of staff. However, PSOs and others should consult with the Safeguarding Officer, record the advice that they are given, and the actions that they subsequently take. This does not replace the need to act without delay where there is an immediate risk of harm and refer matters to emergency services.
The support that can be offered in these cases includes:
- helping the complainant to identify the services that are relevant for them and that may be able to address any allegations;
- helping the complainant to identify the services that may be able to provide them with practical, emotional and other support during this time;
- sharing with the complainant information and contact details for such services;
- supporting the complainant to get in touch with those services, including making initial contact with those services on behalf of the complainant, with their knowledge and agreement and/or
- potentially maintaining contact with the complainant, if they express that preference, whilst they are waiting to hear back from those services, to ensure that any deterioration in their circumstances that may give rise to an immediate risk of harm to them or those close to them (e.g. their children or someone they care for) can be reported to the relevant statutory authorities.
It is important to note that the requirements around reporting to statutory services still apply, even if a concern is not about a Church Officer. However, the Safeguarding Officer’s involvement following a referral in such circumstances will likely be limited.