Download our 2026 Safeguarding Policy We aim to create safe environments, where children and young people are nurtured and protected; and where all people, and especially those who may be vulnerable for any reason, are able to worship and pursue their faith journey with encouragement and in safety.
The PCC has adopted the Church of England’s policies and best practice on safeguarding which may be found on the Church of England’s website. https://www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding
Our Safeguarding Officer is Erica Taylor. If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact Erica by emailing stmbsafeguarding@gmail.com
St Mary’s Church Balderstone’s safeguarding policy is available to download here
The Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser is Abbey Clephane-Wilson, she can be contacted at or at 0161 828 1465 / 07384 460958
Out of Hours Support
The Diocese of Manchester partners with thirtyone:eight and you can access their Safeguarding Helpline if the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser is unavailable. Thirtyone:eight can be contacted on 0303 003 1111.
This also includes any safeguarding queries outside of office hours on weekdays and weekends. An Information Sharing Agreement between the two organisations will allow the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser to receive a copy of the advice thirtyone:eight may offer the caller.
In the case of an emergency
If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Service.
Helplines
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (lines free and open 24 hours).
- Child-line 0800 1111 (lines free and open 24 hours)
- Parent Line: 0808 800 2222
- National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (lines free and open 24 hours).
- Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (open 24 hours).
- Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 080 8808 8141 (free phone Monday to Friday 9-5pm).