Survivor Care and Support

Churches can be well placed, often in the heart of our communities, to offer a safe place for survivors and victims to come and share their experiences, and the Diocese of Portsmouth is committed to responding positively and compassionately to the needs of those who have suffered abuse.

The Diocese of Portsmouth supports national guidance, and the following information should be read in conjunction with the Church of England practice guidance 'Responding Well: A guide to support for victims and survivors of church-based abuse'

The Portsmouth Diocese works in partnership with external services that specialise in supporting survivors/victims who have experienced abuse, and who can develop a programme of support and care that is centered around their needs.

Listening to and caring for those who have suffered abuse

The Diocesan safeguarding team is responsible for:

• Assisting all parishes where there has been a disclosure of abuse, whether it involves a member of the church community or not.
• Ensuring that any information relating to abuse is treated confidentially and shared appropriately.
• Ensuring that there are provisions of support and care in place to meet the short and/or longer term needs of survivors/victims
• Ensuring that individuals seeking support are asked what options will best meet their needs
• Offering access to support and care that is provided independently from the church context, and/or
• Making available planned pastoral care within the church context for those who want this.

The nature of any ongoing support needs will be agreed by the  Diocesan safeguarding team together with the victim/survivor.