Parish Safety Policy

Diocese of Newcastle Anglican Parish of Morpeth Parish Safety Policy

Information for hall hirers and guests, contractors, service personnel and visitors to church property.

The Parish Safety Policy of the Diocese of Newcastle applies to all people who utilise or enter church property, in addition to clergy and church workers. The focus of this policy is on the safety of children and vulnerable people. It forms part of the Work Health and Safety Policy of the Diocese. The link to the complete policy can be found at https://stjamesmorpeth.org.au/ and the policy can be found at https://www.newcastleanglican.org.au/safe-ministry/parish-safety-policy/

The commitment of adults within this parish community to the safety of children and vulnerable people is expressed in the included diagram overleaf.

The Diocese’s commitment to the safety of children and vulnerable people is embodied in a number of codes and processes:

• a general code of behaviour called ‘Being Together’ which includes our commitment to treat people with respect and dignity, irrespective of ability, gender, sexuality, race, age or contribution to the church
• a code of conduct for clergy and church workers called ‘Faithfulness in Service’
• minimum guidelines for ministry with children
• a Professional Standards process for dealing with complaints of child abuse, sexual misconduct and criminal behaviour which operates alongside a Clergy Discipline Process
• a complaints and grievance process for dealing with other complaints and grievances

Information regarding access to the Professional Standards Office and the Kids Helpline is displayed prominently around church buildings. Information on NSW Child Safe Standards, which have been a significant resource for the Diocese, may be found at

As part of the Parish Safety Policy the Diocese supports participation by children using the Office of the Children’s Guardian SAFE themes of safe spaces, and aims to promote a parish culture of listening to children.