The Church of Scotland has a deep concern for the wholeness and wellbeing of each individual. Through its Congregations, working together with the Safeguarding Service and statutory agencies, The Church seeks to safeguard the welfare of all people who come into contact with the Church and its services.
The Gospel proclaims that it is the responsibility of everyone within the fellowship of the Church to prevent harm, be it physical, sexual or emotional, and we will always seek to reduce risk. The Church’s commitment to safeguarding reminds us that God cares passionately about the welfare and wellbeing of all people.
The Scottish Government implemented The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 on 28th February 2011. The short name for this is the PVG scheme and it replaces the Enhanced Disclosure Checks that the church has been carrying out since 2005.
The PVG Scheme will require all Church of Scotland paid staff and volunteers who have contact with children and protected adults to join. The Church of Scotland Safeguarding Policy Statement 2010 is printed in this magazine and is displayed in all church premises.
Mr Bruce McLaren, co-ordinator, Mrs Mabel Stewart and Rev. Dr. Kay Gauld