Diocesan Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions – Vulnerable Adults

Diocesan Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions – Vulnerable Adults

• We don't have any vulnerable adults in our church - do we really need to do this?

  Vulnerability covers a broad spectrum:

  Any adult aged 18 or over who, by reason of mental or other disability, age, illness or other situation is permanently or for the time being unable to take care of him or herself, or to protect him or herself from significant harm or exploitation.

  As we have learned from our experience of safeguarding children, it is a sad fact of life that many more people are being abused than we realise.  It is hard to speak out if you are afraid of rejection or disbelief. For this reason, the Bishops expect all parishes to have a Vulnerable Adult Policy (confirmed annually by the PCC) and to appoint someone to take a local lead on this issue.

  From another perspective, victims and survivors of abuse often think they are alone, so to know that churches are willing not only to talk about the abuse of vulnerable adults but to create a safe and sacred space in which they can pursue their faith journey, can be really helpful. It also shows a Church that is willing to be open, and in doing so confirms the good standing of most of its congregation and workers.

• What is abuse in this context?

  In broad terms we are talking about a violation of one person’s human abuse and civil rights by another. It may be physical, emotional, sexual, spiritual, financial or neglect (i.e. inflicting harm, or failing to act to prevent harm). Like children, adults may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting, by those known to them or by a stranger.

• What can we do if we suspect that abuse is occurring?

  There are four key messages:

  • Value all people
  • Take the needs of vulnerable adults seriously
  • Take allegations seriously
  • This is everybody's responsibility

  If you think that abuse is occurring, you need to discuss this with someone. Each church or group of churches have been asked to appoint a Vulnerable Adult Administrator and this person knows the correct procedure to follow.  However, you can always contact the Diocesan Vulnerable Adult Adviser, the Incumbent or Archdeacon.

  You are also within your rights to contact the local Social Services department and ask their advice.

  Whatever happens, you cannot keep it a secret.

• How do we find out more?

  Obtain a copy of Promoting a Safe Church, Contact the Diocesan Vulnerable Adult Adviser, or come on a training course.

  Contact: Diocesan Vulnerable Adult Adviser
  Email:
  Tel: 01722 411922
  Fax: 01722 411990