Meeting of National Safeguarding Panel, October 2025

Training that connects

Survivor-led training took centre stage in a powerful scrutiny session. While some felt sidelined in co-production efforts, locally delivered sessions were praised for their emotional intelligence and impact. Survivors helped foster empathy and challenge assumptions especially in faith-based contexts. The message was clear: safeguarding must be relational, not just procedural. 

“Responding Well”: A model for co-production

The “Responding Well” training was highlighted as a standout example of survivor-church collaboration. Volunteers and survivors worked together to break down barriers and build understanding. However, uptake across dioceses remains patchy, with logistical hurdles and volunteer fatigue slowing progress.

The panel called for wider adoption across all church roles and stressed the importance of theological framing to embed safeguarding within the Church’s spiritual mission.

Inclusive, accessible safeguarding

Training must meet the needs of all communities. The panel discussed the importance of culturally sensitive approaches, especially for refugees and asylum seekers. In-person formats were recommended for trauma-informed delivery, as online modules often lack the depth needed for vulnerable groups.

Resource disparities between cathedrals and parish churches were also flagged, with calls for national support and tailored training for trustees, PCCs, and cathedral chapters.

Measuring impact, not just attendance

Beyond satisfaction surveys, the panel is developing tools to measure real change like increased confidence and understanding. Survivor involvement in training design is growing, but concerns remain around tokenism and inconsistent engagement.

Evidence from casework and regional oversight suggests training is making a difference. But the Church must keep evolving, embedding trauma-informed practice at every level.