Safeguarding Training Guidance, Policy and FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after I am appointed should I complete my training?

It is expected that people work to achieve the required level of learning as soon as is practicable upon starting a new role. For example, PCC members often end up standing for election on the day and their appointment takes effect immediately. It is not therefore realistic to say that they must be trained before they start. The required core safeguarding learning pathways should be a priority with Basic Awareness and Foundation being completed as part of an induction process and the remaining core pathways being completed within six months of an individual taking up a post (CofE, 2021)

When does my training expire and which course(s) must I renew?

Refresher learning should be completed at a three-yearly interval to keep knowledge and skills up to date. It is expected that everyone will have been trained to the required level within each three-yearly cycle. Refresher learning should be undertaken at the highest required level (as per safeguarding training in the statutory sector) (CofE, 2021). It is your responsibility to ensure that your training is up to date and you have undertaken/booked the refresher training required for your role.

I have completed safeguarding training elsewhere is this transferable?

From the 1st of October 2022, the Methodist Church and the Church of England agreed that they will each recognise the other denomination’s Foundation and Advanced level training as being equivalent to their own ('Advanced' is equivelent to Leadership 1 and 2 and PtO Pathway level training). Methodist Foundation and Advanced level are the only training/courses accepted as evidence of prior learning. The safeguarding programme designed by the Church of England is context specific. Everyone with a chuch role is required to undertake the Church of England safguarding training required of that role.

Can people refuse to undertake safeguarding training and continue in their church role?

The Church of England National Safeguarding Team have issued this note about non-compliance and what consitutes a cogent reason for not undertaking required training. Please, also see the Safeguarding Learning and Devleopment Framework (below).

Are PCC members required to undertake Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse training and if so how soon from appointment must they complete it?

The Church of England National Safeguarding Team issued a statement is response to this question. The statement can be read here