The Diocese of York is part of the Church of England, whose Archbishops, Bishops, clergy and leaders are committed to safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Church (www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding).

Safeguarding means the action the Church takes to promote a safer culture. This means we will promote the welfare of children, young people and adults, work to prevent abuse from occurring, seek to protect those that are at risk of being abused and respond well to those that have been abused. We will take care to identify where a person may present a risk to others, and offer support to them whilst taking steps to mitigate such risks.

The Church of England affirms the ‘Whole Church’ approach to safeguarding. This approach encompasses a commitment to consistent policy and practice across all Church bodies, Church Officers and that everyone associated with the Church, who comes into contact with children, young people and adults, has a role to play.

The Church will take appropriate steps to maintain a safer environment for all and to practice fully and positively Christ's Ministry towards children, young people and adults; to respond sensitively and compassionately to their needs in order to help keep them safe from harm.

Our Diocesan Synod has adopted Church of England policy and guidance agreed by the House of Bishops together with the statutory guidance issued to support the safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults.


Church of England policy and guidance seeks to ensure that church activities involving children, young people and/or adults who may be vulnerable are run in a fun, safe, thoughtful and caring way. You should also refer to it if concerned about a particular person(s). Church policy and guidance includes requirements made of the diocese, bishops, leaders, church organisations and parishes, and suggested checklists and practical templates to use included in appendices.

Explore these pages for information, advice, guidance, and contact details for those who operate and monitor our Diocesan Safeguarding arrangements.

Further useful downloads at: