Churches and communities across the diocese are being encouraged to renew their focus on safeguarding this June through the national campaign “It’s Not Just Policy, It’s Personal.”

The campaign aims to build confidence in recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns, while placing people – not process – at the heart of every action.

At its core, the campaign delivers a simple but powerful message: safeguarding is not just about rules or procedures. It is about how we respond when someone shares a concern, and how we ensure that every individual feels heard, supported and protected.

Putting People First

Every safeguarding situation begins with a person – often someone who has taken a difficult and courageous step in speaking up. The way church members respond in that moment can have a lasting impact.

The campaign reminds us that safeguarding concerns arise in many different ways: through direct disclosure, something observed, or information shared by others. Some concerns may be recent, while others may relate to events many years ago – but all must be taken seriously.

By encouraging open awareness and compassionate responses, the Church continues to strengthen its commitment to creating safer environments for all.

A Clear and Simple Response: The Four ‘Rs’

Central to the campaign is a clear and accessible framework for responding to concerns, known as the Four Rs:

  • Recognise – Be alert to signs of abuse or disclosures
  • Respond – Listen carefully and take what is said seriously
  • Record – Make a clear, factual written record
  • Refer – Share the concern with the appropriate safeguarding officer or authority.

This approach reinforces that individuals are not expected to investigate or resolve situations themselves. Instead, their role is to pass on information so that trained professionals can take appropriate action.

Overcoming Common Hesitations

The campaign also addresses the common uncertainties that can prevent people from reporting concerns. Questions such as “What if I’m interfering?”, “What if it was shared in confidence?”, or “What if it happened a long time ago?” are all explored in supporting materials.

The guidance is clear:

  • Safeguarding is never interference – it is an act of care and responsibility
  • Confidentiality should not prevent concerns being shared where safety is at risk
  • Non-recent concerns are still important and must be reported
  • No one, regardless of role or seniority, is above the safeguarding process.

Even when there is uncertainty about the seriousness of a concern, or whether it has already been reported, the message is simple: report it anyway.

A Shared Responsibility

Ultimately, the campaign emphasises that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Anyone in the church community may be the first person to receive a concern, and everyone should feel confident about what to do next.

It also recognises that responding to safeguarding concerns can be emotionally challenging. Those who handle disclosures are encouraged to seek support from their Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO) or trusted colleagues.

Taking the Message Forward

“It’s Not Just Policy, It’s Personal” is more than a campaign – it is a reminder of the Church’s shared calling to protect and care for one another. By recognising concerns, responding with compassion, and acting responsibly, every member of the Church can help build safer communities where all are valued and protected.

For further information, parishes are encouraged to connect with the diocesan safeguarding team or visit the Church of England safeguarding guidance online.