24/01/2025
The January meeting of the National Safeguarding Steering Group, NSSG, was opened by the lead safeguarding bishop, Joanne Grenfell who updated members on the paper on independence coming to General Synod. The paper has tried to reflect work of Response Group, looking at the engagement noting there is not a consensus on the way forward, so presenting two models to General Synod. Members discussed the proposed details.
Members were updated on the Makin Review, both on the recommendations and how the National Safeguarding Team was responding to those criticised in the report. The national safeguarding director updated on the four-stage process and it was noted that Smyth victims known to the Church continued to be offered support and have been updated on the process. The outcome of this process will be published when completed. NST deputy director for development talked through response already to the recommendations, noting the work underway and proposed a task and finish group to ensure the full response work was completed. Members agreed to provisionally accept the recommendations but noting they would come back after further input from victims and survivors.
An updated was given from the Working Group looking at the recommendations in the Scolding Reivew, relating to Soul Survivor. It was noted that these were wider than safeguarding.
The NST update included:
- Safeguarding Practice Review
- Safe Spaces – agreed to extension to current contract
- Independent audits of dioceses and cathedrals
- National safeguarding casework management system –near completion, project is now closed with the item being ‘business as usual’
- Redress Scheme – with next steps expected to come to July Synod.
- National Safeguarding Standards – the NST had had contact from both the Premier League and the Catholic Church with a view to sharing these.
Regional leads all appointed with a manager in place.
Nazir Afzal, independent chair of the National Safeguarding Panel, NSP, explained some of the changes he was intending to make regarding the Panel, this includes regular executive meetings, an action log and holding meetings in different diocese where the group can meet local safeguarding professionals. The group is going to develop a work plan for topics for discussion and an Annual Report will be available for Synod where the group is holding a fringe event.
Members were also updated on discussions with the charity commission regarding the future structure for delivering safeguarding services.