Policy and Procedure

Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Guidance for the Methodist Church

To enable churches to follow good practice the Methodist Church has a document called the "Safeguarding Policy, Procedures and Guidance for the Methodist Church". This and other useful documents can be found on the Methodist Church web site here .

District, Circuit and Church Safeguarding Policies

The current District Safeguarding Policy can be found here . Please contact your local circuit for the Circuit Safeguarding Policy and your local church for the Church Safeguarding Policy.

Promoting Safer Practice – Safer Recruitment and DBS checks

Critical to good safeguarding is safer recruitment and safe working practices. In line with our policies and procedures, it is essential that safe recruitment processes are followed in relation to the appointment of all paid staff and volunteers. Procedures in relation to both these areas can be found in Section 6 of the Safeguarding Policy Procedures and Guidance for the Methodist Church. The Safer Recruitment Policy, Procedures and Guidance and other useful information for carrying out safer recruitment (including DBS checks where a person is eligible) can be found here .

DDC (Due Diligence Checking Ltd.) is the Registered Body that we use for processing all DBS / PVG application for the Methodist Church. All DBS applications will be done electronically.

Within each Circuit, there will be individuals authorised to undertake DBS checks on behalf of the Methodist church. If you require a DBS check for your role or need to have your DBS renewed, please check with your minister who is able to do this for you.

There is now some useful additional guidance for the Northampton District to help circuits and church to determine whether a person is eligible for a DBS check and the appropriate level of safeguarding training which can be found here .