Safeguarding Statement

Our Commitment

PrayForAPrisoner is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We recognise that everyone has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

As a Christian organisation working with people connected to the criminal justice system—including prisoners, their families, victims, and those who serve them—we are acutely aware of our responsibility to protect those who may be vulnerable.

Our Principles

• Dignity: We treat everyone with respect and dignity, recognising the inherent worth of every person as made in the image of God.
• Vigilance: We are alert to signs of abuse and take seriously all concerns raised.
• Transparency: We operate with openness and accountability in all safeguarding matters.
• Responsiveness: We respond promptly and appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• Partnership: We work with statutory agencies, churches, and other organisations to protect vulnerable people.

Who We Protect

Our safeguarding responsibilities extend to all vulnerable individuals we may encounter through our work, including:

• Children and young people under 18
• Vulnerable adults, including those with learning disabilities, mental health conditions, or who are in situations of vulnerability
• Prisoners who may be vulnerable due to their circumstances
• Family members, including children of prisoners who may be experiencing trauma
• Victims of crime who may be in vulnerable situations

Types of Abuse

We recognise and are alert to all forms of abuse:

• Physical abuse: Hitting, shaking, burning, or other physical harm
• Emotional abuse: Persistent emotional ill-treatment causing severe effects on emotional development
• Sexual abuse: Forcing or enticing a person to participate in sexual activities
• Neglect: Persistent failure to meet basic physical and/or psychological needs
• Financial abuse: Theft, fraud, or coercion in relation to money or property
• Spiritual abuse: Misuse of spiritual authority or manipulation through religious beliefs
• Domestic abuse: Abuse within intimate or family relationships

How to Report a Concern

If you have concerns about the safety or welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult:

What Happens When You Report

1. Your concern will be acknowledged within 24 hours
2. Our Safeguarding Lead will assess the concern
3. If appropriate, we will refer to statutory agencies (police, social services)
4. We will keep you informed as far as confidentiality allows
5. We will review our practices to prevent future occurrences

Our Staff and Volunteers

All staff and volunteers working with vulnerable groups will:

• Undergo appropriate DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks
• Receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role
• Follow our safeguarding policies and procedures
• Report any concerns through proper channels

External Resources

You may also contact these organisations directly:

• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (for concerns about children)
• Childline: 0800 1111 (for children and young people)
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 200 0247
• Action on Elder Abuse: 0808 808 8141
• Thirtyone:eight (Christian safeguarding charity): thirtyoneeight.org

Theological Basis

Our commitment to safeguarding is rooted in our Christian faith. We believe that:

• Every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect
• Jesus showed particular care for the vulnerable and marginalised
• We are called to be good stewards of the trust placed in us
• The Church should be a safe place where people can experience God's love

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Policy Review

This safeguarding statement is reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees. The full Safeguarding Policy is available on request.