Now in its 8th year, Safeguarding Sunday brings together thousands of churches from across the UK, all united by a shared
commitment to creating safer communities. Last year, over 5,400 churches took part, showing just how much this matters
across every tradition and denomination.
This year’s theme is ‘Love Protects’ – rooted in the powerful words of 1 Corinthians 13, reminding us that safeguarding isn’t
just about policy or compliance, but a natural expression of Christian love in action.
Safeguarding isn’t bureaucracy. It isn’t a distraction from ministry. It is ministry.
Read more about the ‘Love Protects’ theme.
Safeguarding Sunday is an opportunity for your church to pause and reflect on your safeguarding journey – to celebrate the
good work already happening, be honest about where things can improve, and commit to continuing to build safer places
for everyone in your care.
Thirtyone:eight, the independent Christian safeguarding charity, is the organiser of Safeguarding Sunday. They have produced this short introductory video
Register here to get access to the full Safeguarding Sunday resources. Once you register, you’ll receive a practical guide and a range of resources to help you shape Safeguarding Sunday in a way that fits your church – whether that’s a full service or a short moment within your gathering
Why do we need Safeguarding Sunday?
Churches play a vital role in supporting individuals, families, and community groups. Yet history has shown that when safeguarding
fails, the consequences can be devastating. High profile reports, including the work of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual
Abuse (IICSA) 2022, have highlighted abuse within multiple church contexts and the urgent need for culture change.
At the same time, churches across the UK are doing significant, often unseen work to make their communities safer. Safeguarding
Sunday is a chance to:
- acknowledge and celebrate positive safeguarding practice.
- be honest about past failures and commit to doing better.
- raise awareness so everyone knows how to speak up or seek help.
- honour and encourage those involved in safeguarding roles.
- rebuild trust with congregations and communities.
Thirtyone:eight is a Charity and Network in Association with Churches Together in England.