There have been some exciting changes in the Safeguarding Team that works across both Yorkshire and Northern Synods.
As of the beginning of September we have welcomed Carrie Kaunda to the safeguarding team in Yorkshire to work alongside Paula and Matt in making sure that we continue to support local churches and the Synod in relation to all issues involving safeguarding. To do this, there has been a change of roles and contact details.
Carrie will take up the role of the Synod Safeguarding Officer for the Yorkshire Synod and can be contacted via her email – carriekaunda.yorkshire@urc.org.uk or by her phone number – 07432886158.
Paula will continue in her role as Synod Safeguarding Support Officer for both Synods and can be contacted via her email – paulakitson.1and4@urc.org.uk or by her phone number – 077562606024
Matt will continue to work across both Synods as a lead Synod Safeguarding Officer and his email address is now – mattknowles.1and4@urc.org.uk His phone number remains the same – 07761525592
The other good news is that both Synods now have a dedicated email address and inbox for any queries or assistance that you may need in relation to safeguarding. This inbox is monitored Monday to Friday by one of the team to ensure that you get a quick and dedicated response. The email address for this is safeguarding.1and4@urc.org.uk
The main thing to remember is that the team are here to help and support you. We will be rolling out more training and will be making contact with local churches direct to see if we can assist with any safeguarding issues at a specific individual level. This will include any support in relation to issues surrounding safer recruitment and the management of information held by the church.
I am sure you will, alongside the existing team of Paula and Matt, welcome both Carrie and Helen (Northern Synod) and we all look forward to supporting you however we can with any safeguarding concerns or queries.