Big Summer Safeguarding Survey

This autumn, the Diocese of Chester will welcome a team of independent auditors from INEQE Safeguarding Group as part of a nationwide independent safeguarding review of all dioceses and cathedrals across the UK.

The process got underway this week with the launch of a survey which has been sent out with a joint message from the Bishop of Chester, Mark Tanner and Jane Pleace, Diocesan Secretary and Chief Executive.

Bishop Mark said:

“This is your chance to share your honest thoughts: to celebrate what’s working well and highlight where we can do better. Whether you’ve had positive experiences or see areas for improvement, your insight is essential. The more voices we hear, the better we can serve and support everyone in our community here in the Diocese of Chester.

Jane explained that every voice matters and that this is not just for leadership, but for the entire community. She said:

“It’s my hope and prayer that every church and meeting place across Chester Diocese is safe and welcoming to all who visit – whether they come once or often. We have a hugely valuable opportunity this year to listen and learn how we can all improve. That starts with listening to you!

“We want to reach families who access our activities – there’s a special section for those under 18, as well as adults. And it’s not just those in leadership roles, we welcome the views of those who take part in our playgroups, church choirs, bellringers, gardeners … so you’ll be hearing a lot about this over the coming weeks.

We’re calling this our Big Summer Safeguarding Survey – big, because we want it to reach as many people as possible. However, the questionnaire is designed to be simple, short and should not take longer than ten minutes to complete.

The survey is open until 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10th, and the responses will go directly—and confidentially—to the independent auditors at the INEQE Safeguarding Group.

Download the letter from Bishop Mark and Jane Pleace