Churches across the UK work tirelessly year-round to create safer environments for their communities. From pastors and children’s workers to safeguarding teams, everyone plays a vital role in ensuring people can worship, pray, and fellowship together safely. Protecting the vulnerable and speaking up for their rights is at the heart of our Christian calling (Proverbs 31:8). Yet, we know the Church hasn’t always succeeded in this mission. However, we have the opportunity to change this.
Safeguarding Sunday is an annual campaign run by Thirtyone:eight, that allows churches to highlight and give thanks for the safeguarding work within their communities. It’s a chance to remind everyone of the crucial role they play in creating safe, healthy environments. Last year, over 4,000 churches participated, reaching an estimated 240,000 people—each one now more aware, equipped, and empowered to address the risks of abuse.
This year, on Sunday, 17 November 2024, churches from diverse backgrounds and traditions will unite again to emphasise the importance of safeguarding. Safeguarding Sunday offers a moment to reflect on your church’s safeguarding journey, acknowledge past mistakes, and demonstrate a commitment to creating safer cultures for the future.
What could your church do?
Whether your church can spare a few minutes or an entire service, every effort—whether a prayer, sermon or short film—matters. Churches can use the free resources from Thirtyone:eight to shape their activities. For example, St Martin’s Church in Ryarsh featured a sketch and children’s prayers, while St Nicholas Church in Sevenoaks offered a talk on ‘speaking up.’ At St Paul’s Beckenham, children engaged in a fun activity to find and assemble a photo of their safeguarding officer. St Peter’s, Bexleyheath, hosted a talk by Greg Barry, which led to updating their safeguarding practices, and at Rochester Cathedral, Roarry the Lion delighted the Sunday Club encouraging the children to ‘raise their roar’ (pictured above – image credit Thirtyone:eight).
“It was a powerful service and many people took part. It reinforced the culture we want to create and generated a lot of positive conversation! We can’t thank you enough. So powerful!”
Safeguarding Sunday doesn’t have to be confined to a single day. Some churches might choose to hold events during Adult Safeguarding Week or dedicate a different Sunday to the theme. The key is to deliver the message in a way that works best for your community.
To find out how your church can take part in creating safer places, visit SafeguardingSunday.org
Thirtyone:eight is a Charity and Network in Association with Churches Together in England.