In the Parish of Solihull we take care to look after all members of the church in particular the safeguarding of our children, young people and vulnerable adults. We follow the policies and procedures for safeguarding of the House of Bishops and the Diocese. Our policies and contact details are below the Noticeboard section of this page.
Noticeboard
Greenham issues
Link to Penalty Tribunal Report on Helen Greenham – click here
Message from the Parish Wardens from the Parish of Solihull.
It was with immense sadness that the Parish learnt of the crimes and subsequent convictions of Peter Jenkins (formerly Greenham), the ex-husband of Helen Greenham, former Team Vicar at St Helen’s, and those of their son Ben Greenham. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims and we commend their extreme bravery and determination in coming forward and sharing their testimony.
With both Peter and Ben Greenham involved in the life of the church during their time in the Parish, this news has understandably caused great concern and distress.
Helen Greenham was suspended from her role as Team Vicar of St Helen’s pending an investigation under the Church Disciplinary Measure which has now concluded. She has accepted that she failed to make the Church aware of her ex-husband’s previous history, thereby compromising the safeguarding of our church and putting young people at risk.
Following a Penalty Hearing in early March 2023 of the Bishop’s Disciplinary Tribunal for the Church of England, Helen Greenham has been removed from public office as well as prohibited from ministry for life, which reflects the severity of the misconduct.
People who wish to come forward with information or who have any concerns about a child, young person or adult who may be vulnerable, or someone who works or volunteers for the Church of England Birmingham may contact the Parish Safeguarding Co-ordinator Viv Dobson on 07960 783636, or via email. They may also contact the Church of England Birmingham Bishop’s Safeguarding Adviser or call 07342 993 844. There is an online referral form here.
Also available is Safe Spaces, an independent and free support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church. They can be contacted via telephone or email.
Email: safespaces@firstlight.org.uk
Tel: 0300 303 1056 (helpline open Monday – Friday 9am – 9pm, Saturday 9am – 1pm and Sunday 1pm – 5pm)
Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk/
Being aware of the profound suffering that abuse causes victims and survivors, and damage caused to trust and community, we wish to offer pastoral support to any who may be struggling or upset, whether by this or any other matter. If you would like to talk to someone, please do contact a member of the ministry team who will be pleased to listen, offer advice, and help in whatever way they can, where appropriate referring any safeguarding concerns to the Parish and Diocesan Safeguarding Officers.
The maintenance of robust safeguarding practices is a central consideration in all that we do. More information can be found on the Diocesan website here.
As we move forward, please be assured of our prayers and determination to restore trust and to help mend the hurt the community is feeling.
Pam Price, Andrew Williams, Parish Wardens
18th May 2023
Raising Concerns
Anybody who has concerns, allegations or safeguarding queries should contact the Parish Safeguarding Co-ordinator Viv Dobson on 07960 783636 or contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser Steph Haynes at StephH@cofebirmingham.com or call 07342 993844.
For very serious concerns which require immediate action please phone the police.
All concerns and allegations will be treated confidentially. Church members should not discuss concerns with others before reporting in accordance with our procedures and common practice across all similar organisations.
Children and young people who wish to discuss any concerns regarding church life, however minor, can contact our Children’s/Youth Advocate Linda Hicks, Director of Children’s and Families Ministry, on 07838 670772.
SAFEGUARDING IS EVERYBODY’S RESPONSIBILITY
· To safeguard others and yourself
· To raise concerns
Useful Contacts
Childline Children and young people 0808 11 11 Childline
NSPCC Children and young people 0808 800 5000 NSPCC
Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 801 0327
National Domestic Violence helpline 0808 2000 247
Safeguarding – Church of England Birmingham
You can find resources on Safeguarding from the Diocesan team, as well as contact details for the relevant officers, here.