The Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) has a new chair. David Niven, who also carries out the role for the Diocese of Bristol, is an experienced social worker and former national chair of the British Association of Social Workers. He also hosts a regular social work podcast, Thoughts on the Social World.
The Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel is the body that oversees and supports the work of the diocesan Safeguarding team. It includes representatives from a range of partner organisations, who each bring their specialist field of support, such as social work, the legal profession and law enforcement.
Of his role, David says, “I very much see my role as a supporter of the work of the Safeguarding team and together we are focused not only on prevention, but also working with and for survivors. They, and our dedicated Parish Safeguarding Officers, are doing some excellent work in supporting church communities and I hope I can share that message as we strengthen our work with partner organisations concerned with safeguarding.”
Ben Goodhind, Safeguarding Manager says, “I am looking forward to working with David who I know brings with him a wealth of safeguarding experience and knowledge. The Safeguarding Advisory Panel gives vital oversight and support to me and the rest of the team as we work to be a safer church for all. While we have seen a continuous strengthening of our safeguarding practices in the church in recent years, there is no place for complacency, and I know that David’s involvement will be invaluable.”
Churches across Bath and Wells are being encouraged to mark Safeguarding Sunday (19 November 2023) and share positive stories that reflect the commitment to safeguarding across our diocese in churches, schools and beyond. Resources to support churches are available on the ThirtyOneEight website. If you have a positive safeguarding story to share ahead of Safeguarding Sunday, please email the communications team.
If you have a safeguarding concern, find out how you can report those concerns at bathwells.org.uk/report-it.