As a society and as a church, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of all individuals, regardless of age or background. Safeguarding means protecting people’s physical and mental well-being, as well as their basic human rights. It involves creating a safe environment that is free from any form of harm, abuse, or neglect, whether it is intentional or not.
The SEC has recently introduced new guidelines with regard to Safeguarding (May 2025) that brings it in line with the Disclosure (Scotland) Act (2020).
At St James we are fully compliant with the new legislation so that all staff and volunteers working with Children and/or Protected Adults in ‘Regulated Roles’ are part of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme.
However, Safeguarding depends on the actions we all take, not just Clergy, Vestry members, Safeguarding Officers, Pastoral Visitors or Young Church Leaders. It involves all of us, to promote the welfare of children and protected adults and to keep them safe from harm. It also protects the well-being of those who volunteer on behalf of the church.
If you, or someone you know, are concerned that a child or adult at St James is at risk or has been harmed, or are concerned about the behaviour of someone at church towards children or protected adults, please pass on your concern to Joyce Smith, the Safeguarding Officer for St James. Your concern will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and passed on to the trained Provincial Safeguarding team, whose details are set out below
Safeguarding Advice
John Wyllie
Email: safeguarding@scotland.anglican.org
Telephone: 07881 868 387
PVG Lead Signatory
Daphne Audsley
Email: DaphneA@scotland.anglican.org
Telephone: 0131 225 6354
Mobile: 07720162273
St James Safeguarding Officer
Joyce Smith
Email: joycesmith655@gmail.com
Telephone 07761400796
If your concern relates to the Safeguarding Officer, contact the Provincial Officers.