Taking care

creating a safe environment for children, young people and leaders

The presbyterian Church in Ireland has a Child Protection programme called 'Taking Care'. Our aim is to create a safe environment for children, yound people and leaders.

At the Sunday services with GB, BB & Scouts we are re-distributing ‘We Care 4 u’ - a card that reminds children they should be kept safe in church; and ‘We Care 4 u too’, a leaflet for leaders setting out guidelines they need to follow.

A new guide ‘We Care with u!’ explains to parents/carers that our church has a Child Protection Policy and Practice Guidelines as detailed in "Taking Care".

Child Protection Policy

Every Presbyterian congregation should have a child protection policy and a policy statement should be visble on the church premises. Taking Care training is provided for everyone who works with children and young people and recommended every three years.

Every congregation should have at least one Designated Person for child protection through whom any concerns about a child should be discussed- At Lowe, our lead Designated Person is John Glasgow.

Recruitment Procedures

All new leaders for regular positions must go though a Recruitment Process which includes references and a criminal records check.

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland is registered with Access Northern Ireland; everyone who works with children in the Uk must be registed with the Independent Safeguarding Authority.

Good Advice

• Encourage leaders and give them your support. Remember they are volunteers!
• Get to know who is working with your child
• Why not offer ot help when an extra pair of hands maybe needed
• If you have concerns or suggestions, talk to a leader