29/11/2024
The National Safeguarding Steering Group, NSSG, November meeting was chaired by the lead safeguarding bishop Joanne Grenfell who noted that there will be a fuller discussion around the Makin and Scolding reviews at Januarys NSSG. A working group, chaired by deputy lead bishop Robert Springett, will delve into the recommendations of the Scolding report, ensuring a focused and comprehensive response.
Members heard that the extensive plan for the Makin publication, earlier in the month, was trauma-informed and involved wide consultation with survivors, ensuring support for both survivors and those criticised in the report. Channel 4 obtained full access to the report and, consequently, it was necessary to publish early at short notice. Efforts were made to involve survivors and provide as much support as possible. However, those criticised had limited time to review the full report. A webinar, conducted on the advice of survivor advocates, proceeded as planned.
NSP independent chair Nazir Afzal set out future ways of working, more like a select committee, the need for more resource and to confirm the vice chair as survivor member Jane Chevous. Members supported all these developments thanking Nazir for this renewed focus and his leadership.
Members received an update from the National Safeguarding Team, NST, on current working with a particular focus on Redress and a look at Safeguarding Practice Reviews both national and local, this was a Code approved by General Synod in July 2023. It was noted the NST is recruiting a Quality Assurance and Performance Manager (QAPM), who will take the lead on coordinating, updating and analysing SPR recommendations and outcomes to support an evidence based approach to learning across the Church.
Members were informed that INEQE would carry out an independent audit of the NST with updated Terms of Reference to come back to the NSSG next year. INEQEs audits of dioceses and cathedrals is already in progress.
The Survivor Participation Framework Update has now been signed off and will be published early in 2025.
The NSSG agreed that subject to the revisions requested at the November meeting and final approval by the lead safeguarding bishop, the draft Managing Safeguarding Concerns and Allegations Code is approved by NSSG and will now come to February General Synod 2025 for final sign off.