Listen

• Carefully, reassuringly, without judgement or asking leading questions.
• Refrain from asking probing questions.
• It may be difficult for someone to disclose—be patient and go at their pace.

Record

• Make a record as soon as possible of all the details which have been given to you, using their (Referral Form CM1)

Refer

• Immediate danger? Report without delay to the Police, or Children’s / Adults Services.
• At the first possible opportunity, report the matter to the Diocese Safeguarding Coordinator (see Quick Guide Flowchart- Responding to Allegations).
• Where the concern involves a child, we have a duty of care but also a legal obligation to refer the matter.

Do not contact the suspected perpetrator of abuse without the advice of the Safeguarding Coordinator, Police or Social Services.