Are you someone who believes safeguarding shouldn’t play a part in church life? Or are you someone who thinks safeguarding is fundamental to faith?
'Safeguarding' has become a familiar term within most church-based settings in recent times. It prompts a broad variety of responses from church-goers, workers and leaders, not all of which are positive.
For some, safeguarding represents a government-led, bureaucratic, tick-box process which has little place in the church. For others, it represents a series of hurdles and barriers to effective ministry which must be overcome. Yet, for a growing number, safeguarding principles and practice are being seen as an enabling force and a good sense guide for interacting with others.
To help us unpack what safeguarding really means for the church, Justin Humphreys, joint-CEO of Thirtyone:eight has written a new book – ‘Safeguarding As Mission’. The book reframes safeguarding in church, helping the reader to recognise safeguarding as mission, as opposed to safeguarding in mission. It concludes that safeguarding is a biblical mandate.
'Safeguarding As Mission' takes the reader through three of Jesus' encounters with others, the woman at the well, the rich young man and his interactions with Pharisees. The book explores the character, attitude, and behaviour of Jesus, shining a light on what it means to create safe places for others. Through these encounters, the reader will discover that safeguarding is a meaningful and integral part of following Jesus' example in mission.
About the author
Justin is a CEO and Head of Safeguarding and Development at Thirtyone:eight. Before joining the charity in 2010, Justin worked in a variety of social work and youth work settings for over 25 years, including the largest children’s charity in the UK. He has also served as a church Pastor and is a passionate advocate for justice and authentic leadership. He has written two other books, ‘Escaping the Maze of Spiritual Abuse’, and ‘Just Leadership’.