Safeguarding

If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of, or is being abused, or presents a risk to others, please seek advice from the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser, or if necessary, report the matter to your Local Authority Social Care Services or the Police.

St Mary’s Safeguarding Contact is:-

M: 07709 989119   E: Safeguarding Officer

The Diocese of Hereford Safeguarding Officer is Carl Steventon and he can be contacted on  07593 817717.

Safeguarding at St Mary’s

At St Mary’s Highley, safeguarding is a top priority. We are committed to fostering an environment of openness, security, and accountability—making St Mary’s a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Together, we look out for one another—especially the children, young people, and adults at risk in our care. This responsibility is supported and coordinated by our Parish Safeguarding Officer, the PCC (Parochial Church Council), and the Diocesan Safeguarding Team.

We are committed to responding to any concerns promptly and sensitively, in line with our safeguarding procedures and with full awareness of the impact these situations can have on those involved.

Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact our Parish Safeguarding Officer:
Phone number: 07709989119
Email address: safeguarding@stmaryshighley.co.uk

Alternatively, you can contact the Hereford Diocese Safeguarding Officer, Carl Steventon:
 07593 817717 (during office hours)
 safeguarding@hereford.anglican.org

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 to contact the police.

Our Safeguarding Policy

The PCC of St Mary’s Highley has adopted the Church of England’s safeguarding policy:
‘Promoting a Safer Church‘, as outlined by the House of Bishops.

We also follow the policies and guidance of the Diocese of Hereford, available here:
 Hereford Diocese Safeguarding Policies and Practice Guidance

Support for Survivors: Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse in connection with the Church. Your information is kept confidential unless you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Helpline: 0300 303 1056
Email: safespaces@safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk

Helpful Contacts

Herefordshire Council Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub

  • Children: 01432 260800
  • Adults: 01432 260715
  • Emergency Duty Team (Out of Hours): 0330 123 9309

Shropshire Council

Telford and Wrekin Council – Family Connect

  • Concerns (Children & Adults): 01952 385385
  • Emergency Duty Team: 01952 676500
    Family Connect

Powys County Council

  • Concerns (Children & Adults): 01597 827666
  • Emergency Duty Team: 0845 054 4847
     Powys Safeguarding

Worcestershire County Council

National Helplines

Action on Elder Abuse: 0808 808 8141

NSPCC: 0808 800 5000

Childline: 0800 1111

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247

The following link will also direct you to the Hereford web page on Safeguarding.