August 2009 Vol: 31 No. 8

Dear Friends

August can be a carefree month, especially for those taking holidays or going on outings. For the younger generation, exams have finished, school has broken up and it is a time to meet with friends and have fun. We usually see more children and young people around in our villages or playing in the park. Parents have to make decisions about the age at which youngsters can be allowed out on their own, and how much freedom to allow them. Some older folk feel that their own childhood was more free and easy because there didn’t seem to be quite so many dangers when they were growing up. Some can recall long, lazy summer days when they were allowed to be out and about all day with their friends. Parents have always issued warnings about not talking to strangers. It can be difficult impressing that message on young minds, without making the youngsters too fearful or destroying their trust in adults. It is worrying when we hear about people in positions of trust who have abused children.

Organisations that are involved with those who are young and vulnerable have to put policies in place for their protection. This applies to voluntary groups as well as nurseries and schools. The Church is no exception. Clergy, Readers and licensed ministers have Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) clearance. Leaders of groups and activities which children or young people may attend without a parent or carer are also required to have a CRB check. Our Safeguarding Policy has recently been completely revised and updated and has been adopted by the five parishes in our United Benefice. The policy is in accordance with guidelines issued by the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham, and in line with Church of England policy. Doris Elcock, our Child Protection Co-ordinator, has led a training session for children’s leaders, to familiarise them with the policy. A further session is planned for those who help with young people’s groups. However, when all the safeguards are in place, adults still have a responsibility to be vigilant and not to be afraid to speak to someone if they have any concerns.

If you are a parent or grandparent and want to know about “child friendly” church services or any of our activities for the younger generation, please ask. If you can’t find details of the leader of a particular group, please ask me and I’ll put you in touch with the person who runs that activity.

I hope all of you – young and not so young – have a relaxed, happy and safe time this summer.

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington