Safeguarding
We take safeguarding children and adults at risk very seriously, taking great care over recruitment and training. You can read the national guidelines and church policy we follow.
If you have concerns about someone's welfare, the care provided, or something at church isn't right, please tell us straight away. Download a form here and send it to our safeguarding officer.
If you've experienced abuse at church or anywhere else it is right to share that. We will listen sensitively, respect your privacy, respond promptly and get advice from safeguarding professionals. We will also offer appropriate support, for example with the costs of counselling.
Claire Mason
Safeguarding Officer for St Matthew’s Church
01223 603859
clairemason@stmatthews.uk
Frank Price
Senior minister (incumbent) of St Matthew's Church
01223 603861
frankprice@stmatthews.uk
You are also welcome to speak to those who hold us accountable:
The church safeguarding team for our area: 01353 652747
(Calls out of office hours go to the "thirty one eight" helpline)
St Matthew's is overseen by Rt. Rev. Rob Munro, the Bishop of Ebbsfleet, an evangelical Bishop.
admin@bishopofebbsfleet.org.
Other external organisations that offer support:
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in a church or as a result of their relationship with a church.
Cambridgeshire Children's Services: 0345 045 5203 (out of hours : 01733 234724)
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Safeguarding Children Board: 0345 045 5203, out of hours: 01733 234724
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Adult Services: 0345 045 5202
Childline: 0800 1111 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are a child or young person and are worried about anything.
National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are experiencing domestic abuse.
Cambridge and Peterborough Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership
Cambridge Women's Aid Safe Refuge 01223 460947, Community Support 01223 361214
Restored Help for survivors of domestic abuse and advice for churches.
Samaritans Helpline: 08457 90 90 90 (open 24 hours). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.
Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 080 8808 8141 (free phone Monday to Friday 9-5pm)