Domestic Abuse in the spotlight at annual Safeguarding Event

A networking event and workshop before the service focussed on domestic abuse, led by Carolina Kuzaks – Cardenas, Training Manager from Restored. The organisation works to change the story for survivors and provides training for churches. It also hosts the biggest survivor network in the UK and has a network of churches called Beacon Churches to support survivors across the UK, within faith communities.

In her message to parishes, Carolina said: "I think the most important thing is first to understand is that domestic abuse can happen in to people who attend our churches.”

The service itself included recognition of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and leadership in safeguarding, helping to foster cultures of care, protection and accountability across the diocese.

Following a diocesan nomination process, ten people were selected from nominations submitted by parishes, chaplaincies and cathedral communities. The recipients were honoured during the service for their outstanding contributions to safeguarding ministry and practice.

Roger Dutton, Chair of the Chester Cathedral Safeguarding Advisory Group

Penny Hearn, PSO at St Mary's Church Tilston

Clive Searle, PSO at Bowdon

Miss Sue Shaw, PSO at West Kirby St Bridget with Caldy

Peter Robson, (PSO), Karen Robson and Janet Trigg (Deputy PSOs) at Thurstaston

Judith Broughton, posthumous award collected by her family, formerly Churchwarden at St Cross Knutsford

Jennifer Kohn, PA to the Bishop of Birkenhead and the Bishop of Stockport

Sue Fryer, PSO at St Mary without the walls

Rt Revd Julie Conalty, Bishop of Birkenhead paid tribute to all those involved in safeguarding across the diocese.

She said: “From the nominations received, ten were chosen to represent outstanding contributions to safeguarding in our church and cathedral communities. We are hugely grateful to them and the hundreds of others who make our communities safer for everyone.”

The Diocese of Chester extends its congratulations to all those recognised through this year's awards and thanks everyone who plays a part in strengthening safeguarding across our communities.