Safeguarding is the protection of adults and children from harm, abuse or neglect. If we believe that all people are precious in the eyes of God, their creator; if we believe that as Christians we should follow the example of Jesus in his compassion and care for others; if we believe that the church should be a sanctuary of safety and peace; and if we believe that we as Christians should speak out against injustice, then safeguarding should be an automatic part of our church – as we strive to protect all people from harm, abuse or neglect and to love, care and support all who have been affected by such damaging behaviour.