Safeguarding our community
The Parish of St Luke's and St Mark's is committed to the safeguarding, care and nurture of everyone within our community.
The Parish accepts and adopts in full the contents of the Church of England's Safeguarding Policy. Our policy statement and handbook are available to download below.
If you have a concern
If you are concerned about the safety or welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult — please don't hesitate to get in touch. All concerns will be taken seriously and treated in confidence.
A Biblical Mandate to Safeguard
The Church should be a sanctuary where everyone feels welcome and secure. Safeguarding requires intentionality — harm can occur anywhere, including places of worship, which is why we must foster an environment where abuse has no place and where people are encouraged to speak up.
We are collectively committed to:
- Being vigilant and aware of risks
- Ensuring clear safeguarding policies and procedures
- Cultivating an atmosphere of openness, humility, and accountability
- Empowering individuals to speak out when something is wrong
Theology of safeguarding — three themes:
- Mandate — Every generation is called to care for the vulnerable.
- Motivation — Our love for God and for people compels us to pursue justice and protection for the weak.
- Mission — We are called to actively work towards environments where people are safe, heard, and valued.
Hampshire Children's Services
For urgent help and advice, including Hampshire's out of hours service:
📞 0300 555 1384Mon–Fri 9am–5pm · Out of hours: 0300 555 1373
Hampshire Adult Social Care
📞 0300 555 1386Mon–Thu 8:30am–5pm · Fri 8:30am–4:30pm · Out of hours: 0300 555 1373
Support is available
Not sure who to contact?
You can always contact the church office and we will direct you to the right person. All concerns are taken seriously.