Even stronger safeguarding support is being offered to parishes as Mandy Wells has evolved her role from providing safeguarding training, to now supporting parishes as Assistant Diocesan Safeguarding Officer – Parish Support and Training.

Mandy, who has a wealth of experience thanks to her background in the health sector, is able to assist those in the Diocese of Truro’s parishes with any questions, calls for training or assistance.

Image shows Mandy looking at the camera and smiling.

Mandy has been the diocese’s safeguarding trainer  for eight years – delivering training and inductions for parish safeguarding officers.

She will continue the training but will also be offering support to parish safeguarding officers when and where needed.

Mandy said: “Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility.

“I am part of the Diocese of Truro’s safeguarding team and my role within that is to build relationships in the parish around safeguarding.

“The Parochial Church Council (PCC) members are responsible for making sure they meet all safeguarding requirements and have a safeguarding officer overseeing training and policy. “My role means I am able to support the existing parish safeguarding officers.

“I can listen to the needs of those in the parishes and bring them to the safeguarding team. I am the link between the two and can encourage a safer culture in the church.”

Mandy, along with her team, follows the Church of England National Framework.

Anyone with Safeguarding questions is welcome to email her. She can also help with parishes’ safeguarding dashboard, listen to queries and signpost people to further help.

Andy Earl, Head of Safeguarding at Diocese of Truro, said: “Adapting Mandy’s role to Assistant Diocesan Safeguarding Officer Parish Support and Training strengthens our support to parishes, it builds on her work leading training.

“Safeguarding is mainly delivered at parish level and having a dedicated professional linking in with parishes to assist, advise and reassure is intended to strengthen our ongoing work together. Making the Church in this diocese safer and supporting the vulnerable.”

Mandy started her career as a nursery nurse and then moved on to paediatric nursing. She has a degree in Early Childhood studies, ran a children’s centre for several years and been involved with adult education. This experience has offered her insight and expertise beneficial to her new role.

She added: “I am excited about this growth. I feel it is worthwhile.”