We believe that God is all-powerful and can accomplish anything according to His will. As a member, serving in the church is an opportunity to contribute in your own way to fulfilling God’s purpose on the earth and actualise your God-given potential.

You are encouraged to join any of the ministries where you feel led, and God will bless you for your service. Dedicate yourself to the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly, and His abundant blessings will follow. These are the ministries: –

1. Choir
2. Media and Digital
3. Ushering
4. Welfare and Follow up
5. Christian Education
6. Youth & Young Adult
7. Children Department
8. Prayer Team
9. Others 

At Christ Apostolic Church Stockwell, (HQ and Sittingbourne) we are dedicated to fostering and upholding a secure and supportive environment for all members, with a particular focus on safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

We firmly believe that no child, young person, or vulnerable adult should ever experience abuse, and we acknowledge our responsibility to protect their well-being and shield them from harm.

We are committed to providing pastoral care to those who worship at CAC Stockwell, Sittingbourne, recognizing our duty to ensure the safety, care and welfare of our congregation.

Our goal is to cultivate an atmosphere where everyone in CAC Stockwell, Sittingbourne can grow spiritually in Christ. As such, we are devoted to implementing safeguarding practices that protect every individual who engages with our church community.

Purpose of the Policy

1. To ensure the safety and protection of children, young people, and vulnerable adults attending our church.
2. To equip staff and volunteers with clear procedures for responding to any suspicions or concerns regarding harm or potential harm, including making referrals.
3. To outline the steps staff and volunteers should expect if an allegation is made against them.
4. This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and any individuals representing the church.

Our Commitments

1. We recognize the paramount importance of safeguarding the well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
2. We believe every individual has the right to protection from harm and abuse, and the freedom to feel safe and secure.
3. We acknowledge the responsibility of all staff and volunteers to be vigilant, well-trained, and committed to safeguarding those in their care.

Our Approach to Safeguarding:

1. Listening to, respecting, and valuing them– We prioritize listening to children, young people, and vulnerable adults, treating them with respect, and ensuring they feel valued.
2. Implementing child protection guidelines – Safeguarding procedures and statutory requirements will be fully adopted and consistently followed.
3. Establishing a code of conduct – A strict code of conduct for staff and volunteers will be implemented and adhered to.
4. Responding swiftly and appropriately – All concerns, suspicions, or allegations of abuse will be addressed swiftly and appropriately.
5. Engaging with parents, carers, and families – We will collaborate with parents, carers, and families, encouraging open dialogue and offering opportunities to raise concerns.
6. Safe recruitment practices – Safe recruitment practices, including thorough background checks, will be conducted for staff and volunteers.
7. Providing ongoing training and support – Staff will receive continuous management, support, supervision, and safeguarding training to enhance their ability to protect others.
8. Maintaining confidentiality – Confidential information will be securely stored and handled in line with national safeguarding guidelines and General Data Protection Regulations by the Government.
9. Investigating thoroughly – Allegations of harm involving a child, young person, or vulnerable adult will be thoroughly investigated. We will work in close cooperation with the police and local authorities as necessary.
10. Offering pastoral care and support – Pastoral care and support, including counselling, will be extended to those who have experienced abuse, helping them through a process of healing aligned with biblical principles.
11. Handling allegations appropriately – In the event of an allegation against a staff member, they will be temporarily removed from working with children, young people, or vulnerable adults while the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Safeguarding Lead conduct an investigation.

This policy reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a church environment that safeguards and nurtures everyone, ensuring their safety and well-being as they journey in faith.