Helen Norris has been appointed as a new trainer to join the safeguarding team within the Parish Support Team at the Diocese. Helen replaces Ruth Walker, who retired in January 2024.
Helen says: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new Diocesan Safeguarding Trainer. I am a committed Christian and believe that safeguarding is absolutely central to our faith. I believe that we, as the church, need to create a safe space for people to discover more about God. I believe that a healthy safeguarding culture that is built through effective training is what will enable this safe space to be created. Where every person can be welcomed safely into church and be transformed by Christ.”
The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher says: “The Diocese of Norwich is committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults to worship and grow in Christ safely. I take that commitment very seriously and believe that making our churches safe for all is everyone’s responsibility. To enable that, our diocesan safeguarding team provides professional advice and training, as well as supporting those who may have suffered abuse.”
Sue Brice is the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser. Sue says: “Ruth Walker left our safeguarding training platform in an extremely healthy place, we continue to support all involved on the journey of understanding. Whilst it is sad to say goodbye to Ruth, it is wonderful to welcome Helen to our team, Helen’s experience, care, and understanding will further equip us to continue with that support.”
Helen comes from the education sector and brings with her a wealth of experience from her 18 years of working in Primary Education. Helen was the Designated Safeguarding Lead for many years; where she took lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection.
The safeguarding team now includes Helen Norris as Diocesan Safeguarding Trainer, Sue Brice, the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser and Peter Sayer, the Diocesan Assistant Safeguarding Adviser.
In the Church of England, all authorised clergy, bishops, archdeacons, licensed readers, lay workers, churchwardens and PCCs must have ‘due regard’ to safeguarding guidance issued by the House of Bishops. This includes safeguarding training.
If you wish to report a safeguarding concern, you can contact the team here: https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/home/safeguarding/
If you want to find out more about parish support safeguarding training: https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/home/safeguarding/parish_support-safeguarding-training/