Safeguarding 

Promoting a Safer Church

Ballynahinch Baptist Church is committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being and development of its children, young people and adults at risk.  We also endeavour to preserve and support the family units from which these young people come.  All children’s and youth work at Ballynahinch Baptist Church should be conducted in a way that reflects Biblical principles.

•  As members of this church, we commit ourselves to the nurturing, protection, and safekeeping of all, especially children, young people and adults at risk.  
•  It is the responsibility of each one of us to prevent all forms of abuse of children, young people, and adults at risk, and to report any abuse discovered or suspected. 
•  We recognise that our work with children, young people, and adults at risk is the responsibility of the whole church.  
•  We undertake to exercise proper care in the selection and appointment of those working with children, young people, and adults at risk whether paid or volunteer. 
•  The church is committed to supporting, resourcing and training those who work with children, young people, and adults at risk and to provide appropriate supervision.  
•  The church is committed to following current legislation and government guidance.  
•  Each worker with children, young people, and adults at risk must know the recommendations, and undertake to observe them. Each shall be given a copy of the church’s agreed procedures and Good Practice guidelines.  
•  As part of our commitment to children, young people, and adults at risk, the church has appointed Natalie Kean and to be their Designated Person.  Natalie's role will be regularly explained to children, young people, and adults at risk and their name, and phone number publicly displayed. 

The Elders and Deacons of this Church are responsible for the implementation of this policy and will review it every 2 years with the leaders in charge of youth organisations.

Next review date: May 2022