Blogs

11 March 2025

Why Matthew 18 is inappropriate in cases of abuse

Matthew 18 is often the go-to passage for resolving conflicts in church. For everyday disagreements this approach makes sense. But, the Bible also calls Christians to protect the vulnerable, seek justice, not force reconciliation where harm has been done. In cases of abuse, it is not an appropriate process to follow. Read more.

14 February 2025

Synod update - The future of safeguarding in the Church of England

The future of safeguarding in the Church of England was debated at Synod on Tuesday. The debate was lengthy and complex, but also important, because it not only affects the future of the Church of England but has the potential to impact other churches and denominations too. Read about what Synod has decided.

13 February 2025

Which safeguarding management software is right for your organisation?

Safeguarding management software can be a game-changer when it comes to streamlining your safeguarding processes. In this blog, we outline the benefits these systems offer and explore the key things to look for when choosing a system that’s right for your organisation.

03 February 2025

The Journey Towards Mandatory Reporting

One of the key IICSA recommendations, and one we are campaigning to come to law is about Mandatory Reporting. This is a subject that has been discussed at length in parliament, and for our members, it's been difficult to keep track of developments. This blog shows the timeline of recent events.

14 January 2025

Specialist safeguarding training for youth camps and residentials

Everyone volunteering or working at youth camps and residentials has a responsibility to prevent harm, recognise the signs of abuse, understand risks and create a safe environment. But training that volume of people can be difficult and expensive. Until now. Book our Safeguarding for Residentials and Events training.

08 January 2025

How to respond to disclosures of abuse

When someone tells us about the harm or abuse they have experienced we might worry that we don’t know what to do, or that we might make things worse. How we respond can make all the difference between a victim or survivor feeling supported and empowered, or silenced and further hurt.

31 December 2024

The Stewards’ Trust journey to strengthening safeguarding practices

The Stewards’ Trust have been a member with Thirtyone:eight for 22 years. This year, they were awarded the Thirtyone:eight Safeguarding Standards Award. Helen Paterson, Family Director and Designated Safeguarding Officer speaks to us about their experience and how it’s helped them.

21 October 2024

Behind the scenes of 'Safe'

As part of Safeguarding Sunday 2024, we have produced a spoken word film called ‘SAFE’. We went behind the scenes of the film to speak to Corinne Thorne who co-wrote and performed in the film. Corinne works for Thirtyone:eight as a Safeguarding Advisor. She spoke to us about why this film is so important to her and for the church.

16 October 2024

Member's Spotlight: Spring Harvest

Spring Harvest Thirtyone:eight have been a member of Thirtyone:eight for 23 years. Here, their CEO, Phil Loose shares how their membership has helped them grow in their mission.

15 October 2024

Safeguarding in charities — lessons learned and why it matters

A recent high-profile case saw a charity lose its charitable status due to serious safeguarding failures. It’s a clear reminder for all charities, safeguarding isn’t an optional extra, it’s essential. What can we learn from this case?

01 October 2024

7 tips for a safer, healthier culture

What are the characteristics of safer, healthier Christian culture, and why is it important? Thirtyone:eight join CEO, Justin Humphreys gives us his top tips.

25 September 2024

Scotland Embraces the UNCRC: What It Means for You

This summer, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) was written into Scottish law. This blog explores what it means for you and the children you support.

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