Responding Well to Domestic Abuse Practice Guidance

Dear Colleagues,

In 2006 the Church of England produced the ‘Responding to Domestic Abuse: Guidelines for those with Pastoral Responsibilities’. This was in response to a motion passed by the General Synod of the Church of England in July 2004:

That this Synod, noting that domestic violence is regarded by the Home Office and the police as a crime:

(a) view with extreme alarm the number of incidents being regularly reported, as being an unacceptable picture of suffering and abuse;

(b) call for national guidelines to be issued by the Archbishops’ Council for those with pastoral care responsibilities, as to the appropriate relationship with both victims and perpetrators;

(c) recognise the special circumstances associated with domestic violence, and therefore the special needs of victims, in minority ethnic communities; and

(d) urge all dioceses to consider ways in which they could i) work in partnership with other agencies, co-operating sensitively with those serving minority communities, to provide the resources needed by victims and their families; ii) speak out against the evil of domestic violence; and iii) work for justice and safety in the homes of this nation.

The Church remains committed to those who have been survivors/victims of domestic abuse and to addressing the processes that lead to domestic abuse. Domestic abuse in all its forms is contrary to the will of God and an affront to human dignity. All need to play their part in preventing or halting it.

I hope that this updated practice guidance will help church communities address the issues in an informed way and be of use to anyone entrusted by victims, survivors or perpetrators to hear their story. In doing so, we acknowledge the excellent work that is already taking place in many churches, by many Christians and by those working in voluntary and statutory organisations and we are grateful for their help in drawing up this revised practice guidance.

Yours in Christ’s fellowship,

The Right Reverend Peter Hancock
Bishop of Bath and Wells
Lead Bishop on Safeguarding

Thanks are owed to the Domestic Abuse Task Group (see below) for their contribution to the preparation of this practice guidance. ‘Restored’ have assisted with the re-drafting of this practice guidance, following a very comprehensive response to the consultation. Additional thanks go to the dioceses of Southwark and Canterbury for the use of some of their materials.

Aim

This document sets out the Church of England’s Domestic Abuse Policy and the detailed practice guidance on how the Church of England will implement ts Domestic Abuse Policy. It supports the Church’s commitment to address and respond effectively to domestic abuse both within its own community and wider society.

It replaces and updates ‘Responding to Domestic Abuse; Guidelines for those with pastoral responsibilities 2006’.

The practice guidance is intended to raise awareness and to highlight some of the areas that need to be considered in making our churches safer places. To encourage churches to become places of safety where domestic abuse is taken seriously, victims/survivors are believed and respected and alleged or known perpetrators are challenged.

It aims to inform, direct and equip those working at a local level, not only those working in authorised ministries such as clergy, readers or pastoral assistants, but also those who may be entrusted by victims/survivors or alleged or known perpetrators to hear their story and who want to offer the most appropriate care.

Scope

This policy applies to all church bodies ^[*] and officers ^[*] . Full understanding of, and adherence to, this policy should lead to a deepening in the understanding of, and respect for, the rights of children, young people and adults as people of faith in the life of the Church.

Under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, ^[*] all authorised clergy, bishops, archdeacons, licensed readers and lay workers, churchwardens and PCCs must have ‘due regard’ to safeguarding guidance (sections 1, 2 and 3 of this document) issued by the House of Bishops (this will include both policy and practice guidance). A duty to have ‘due regard’ to guidance means that the person under the duty is not free to disregard it but is required to follow such guidance unless there are cogent reasons for not doing so (‘cogent’ for this purpose means clear, logical and convincing). Failure by clergy to comply with the duty imposed by the 2016 Measure may result in disciplinary action.

The Ecclesiastical Insurance Group has made it clear that their insurance cover is only valid where House of Bishops safeguarding policy and practice guidance is being followed.

Outline

Section 1 outlines the Church of England’s Policy on Domestic Abuse. Section 2 outlines the procedure for responding to domestic abuse and Section 3 outlines the training requirements. This is supported by 9 Appendices which provide good practice reference material and templates.

This is not an all-inclusive resource, excellent resources that cover this subject more thoroughly can be found in Appendix 9. The guidance recognises that often the Church’s role involves supporting victims/survivors, empowering them to seek professional care from the relevant agencies. The Church can also support alleged or known perpetrators of abuse, by encouraging them to recognise their personal needs and seek appropriate help or by reinforcing what is being done by others to help them to take responsibility for and address their abusive attitudes and behaviour. This may include referring individuals to a programme for alleged or known perpetrators of domestic abuse.

Additional associated House of Bishops Practice Guidance documents supplement this practice guidance and are referenced in this policy.

Building on this, church bodies may provide additional local procedures and guidance in line with the House of Bishops policy and practice guidance.

Where to find the policy

It will be distributed via email to all dioceses, cathedrals and other Church bodies. The most up to date version of the policy, model templates and the associated practice guidance, will always be available on the Church of England website.

News of updates will be included in information circulated by the National Safeguarding Team.

Relevant information will be updated online, where the policy and associated practice guidance can be downloaded easily for local use, so that it is not necessary to supply large quantities of printed papers, which can become out of date all too quickly.

For those who do not have access to the internet, hard copies of the policy and associated documents can be supplied via their Diocesan Safeguarding Team or via Church House Publishing, on request.

Please note that the aim will be to move to a full electronic manual in 2017.

Please note: You are reminded that the ‘due regard’ duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 applies.

1.1. Context

The Church is committed to those who have been victims and survivors of domestic abuse. ^[*] Domestic abuse in all its forms is contrary to the will of God and an affront to human dignity. All need to play their part in preventing or halting it.

There is growing awareness in society of the extent of domestic abuse and recognition that domestic abuse is a crime, not a private matter to be kept in the family or community. This has resulted in amendments to legislation (see Appendix 2 for a summary of the legal context) and improved responses and interventions by police, housing and other statutory or voluntary agencies designed to improve safety, encourage partnership working and provide increased support to victims and perpetrators. Many of these agencies have been extremely supportive of the development of this guidance and are keen to work with the Church to support survivors and reduce the incidence of domestic abuse. We recognise that the Church is one institution in a network of many that must play its part in recognising and referring on cases of domestic abuse to those with statutory responsibility. Progress has been made in many dioceses in developing relationships with statutory and voluntary agencies working to address domestic abuse and this approach is recommended for all dioceses and parishes.

For the Church, support of survivors and response to alleged or known perpetrators of domestic abuse must be considered primarily as a safeguarding issue and also in the wider context of good pastoral care.

In July 2004 the General Synod of the Church of England passed a motion in relation to the Church’s commitment to tackle domestic violence.

In addition the Anglican Communion resolutions 15:7 and 16:2, 3 provide a context for the Church to address issues of gender justice and domestic abuse.

In February 2014, the General Synod approved the following motion on gender-based violence:

That this Synod, believing that all people are made in the image of God and that all forms of violence based on gender represent an abuse and violation of that image:

● Affirm work already undertaken in dioceses, deaneries, parishes and Church of England schools in raising awareness and caring for survivors of gender-based violence in all our diverse communities;

● Support measures to bring alleged or known perpetrators to account and provide support for changed lifestyles;

● Encourage boys and men to stand against gender-based violence;

● Commend Anglican Consultative Council Resolution 15:7 on preventing and eliminating gender-based violence to dioceses, deaneries and parishes and urge them to seek practical approaches to its implementation.

1.2. Our theological approach

When considering theology and domestic abuse we have to realise that religious or spiritual factors are central to the victim’s understanding and response. His/her own faith and the support of Church can be vital in helping the healing process, while a lack of understanding regarding the Biblical perspective on abusive relationships by the victim or those he/she turns to for spiritual guidance and support can add to the emotional, physical and financial hurdles already faced.

The basis of our theological approach is summarised as follows:

• Human beings are created in the divine image to live in relationships of love, respect and mutual self-giving. This should be reflected in how intimate relationships are conducted.
• Tragically, the corruption of human nature which Christian theology names ‘sin’ means that the mutual dependence and shared vulnerability which are inseparable from intimacy can instead become the vehicle through which one person can inflict profound hurt, damage and abuse upon another.
• The pattern of living that is revealed through Jesus in his relationships with others entails that abuse of any kind is contrary to the will of God and an affront to human dignity. This entails a heavy responsibility upon the Church and its members to do everything possible to prevent or halt it.
• The good news of Christ promises God’s redeeming presence and power in situations of pain and suffering. Through rejection of patterns of violence, and support of those who have been abused, the Church is called to be a vehicle of God’s work of healing for both survivors and alleged or known perpetrators of abuse.
• The Church is committed to doing justice to the truth about God and human beings that is revealed in the Christian Gospel.

A summary of Biblical verses that have been used to justify abuse and more helpful interpretations of these verses is given in Appendix 3.

1.3. Church of England Policy on Domestic Abuse

The Church of England is committed to raising awareness about domestic abuse and its impact on individuals, children, the wider family and community.

It will work to ensure that:

● The safety of individuals suffering abuse or seeking help is the first priority, and to be aware of the need for confidentiality within the bounds of good safeguarding practice;

● Teaching and worship reflects awareness-raising about domestic abuse, uses appropriate language and says clearly that domestic abuse is wrong;

● Inappropriate behaviour is challenged, this needs to be done in an extremely careful way, in a way that does not place any individual including a victim at increased risk.

● Clergy and clergy spouses have the same access to support and resources as others who are experiencing domestic abuse. In addition the Diocesan Bishop will appoint a Bishop’s Visitor ^[*] whose role is to support the clergy or clergy spouse at the time of the breakdown of the relationship, and for as long as possible after, as required.

It is committed to all church bodies:

● Adopting and publishing a local policy on domestic abuse, including who to contact if there are concerns;

● Having clear procedures in place to respond to concerns about domestic abuse in line with Responding to Domestic Abuse Practice Guidance and Responding to Serious Safeguarding Concerns Against Church Officers Practice Guidance.

● Ensuring signage is in place in local venues to demonstrate that your church or setting is willing to talk with everyone about domestic abuse and how to access support;

● Appointing a named individual who has responsibility for domestic abuse and violence and who is a point of contact for any advice and support. This may be the DSA, PSO or the nominated safeguarding lead;

● Training those in leadership positions, safeguarding roles and with pastoral roles on domestic abuse;

● Discussing domestic abuse and violence in appropriate contexts such as marriage preparation, youth groups, ordinand training and in church settings;

● Organising and promoting training and awareness-raising sessions;

● Working with Statutory agencies and other support bodies. Supporting and publicising their work.

1.4. What do you need to do in a diocese?

Drawing on the policy statement, the box below summarises what a diocese needs to have in place (this can be adapted for other church bodies):

Summary guidance on domestic abuse for dioceses

Do:

● Adopt and publish a domestic abuse statement, including who to contact if there are concerns (see Appendix 4 for a template Diocesan Statement);

● Appoint a named individual who is a point of contact for any advice and support for parishes and other church bodies, as appropriate. This may be the DSA;

● Have clear procedures in place to respond to concerns about domestic abuse in line with Section 3 and Responding to Serious Safeguarding Concerns against Church Officers Practice Guidance; 

● Monitor all concerns in relation to domestic abuse allegations and concerns against church officers in the diocese;

● Provide support to parishes to implement the domestic abuse policy and practice guidance;

● Appoint a Bishop’s Visitor and ensure that all clergy and their partners know how to access support;

● Deliver a domestic abuse training programme for those in leadership positions, safeguarding and pastoral roles in the diocese and parishes;

● Work in partnership with other specialist agencies.

Recommended good practice:

Offer additional resources and materials to parishes such as materials for raising awareness sessions, etc.

1.5. What do you need to do in a parish?

Drawing on the policy statement, the box below summarises what a parish needs to have in place (this can be adapted for other church bodies):

Summary guidance on domestic abuse for parishes

Do:

● PCC to agree a parish domestic abuse statement including who to contact if there are concerns (see Appendix 5 for template Parish Statement);

● Appoint a named individual who is a point of contact for any advice and support. This may be the Parish Safeguarding Officer (PSO);

● Follow the process on how to respond to concerns about domestic abuse (see Section 2). If parishes are in any doubt as to what action to take they should refer to the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser (DSA).

● Support those in leadership positions, pastoral and safeguarding roles to engage in Diocesan domestic abuse training.

● Consider the best place to display the domestic abuse statement including information about helplines and local services.

● Discuss domestic abuse in appropriate contexts such as marriage preparation (see Appendix 8 for good practice guidance).

● Challenge inappropriate comments and behaviour by church members.

Recommended good practice:

● Encourage leaders and those who preach to speak against domestic abuse in teaching, sermons, prayers and parish magazines – remember that many of the congregation may have a personal experience.

● Offer some awareness raising activities e.g. invite speakers from local domestic abuse agencies, organise an activity around 25 November (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women).

● Consider including activities around healthy relationships within activities for children and young people.

● Develop links with any local domestic abuse organisations.

● Organise courses in parenting and confidence-building.

Please note: You are reminded that the ‘due regard’ duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 applies.

2.1. Responding to victims/survivors

It is sometimes tempting to minimize the survivor’s experiences. After all (we might wrongly reason), we’ve all been in arguments, so if they can’t cope, then it’s their problem. Yet an abusive relationship is not about an ordinary, everyday argument in which both people have a bit of a yell and then make up. It is very different indeed and often involves repeated behaviour. We must guard against deciding which abusive behaviour is worth bothering with, and which is not. We must offer help and support to all who ask for and need it.

Responding to Domestic Abuse: Guidelines for Those with Pastoral Responsibilities, 2006 (p.24) Church of England. Archbishops’ Council.

The guidance below aims to assist you in responding to people disclosing abuse. If you feel ill-equipped to deal with the situation please contact the DSA for advice and guidance. The safety of children and victims is paramount. All actions should carefully consider the risk to their, and your, safety. Telephone calls, holding information about support services for domestic abuse, the use of texts and emails and accessing relevant websites all create potential risks for those experiencing abuse.

For information on the statutory definition of abuse, its prevalence and effects, and how to recognise both victims/survivors and alleged perpetrators please see Appendix 1. This also includes information on specialist types of domestic abuse.

Initial disclosure

If a victim discloses abuse, the following factors are important:

• Most victims/survivors want to be asked. If you are able to broach the subject, your offer of help could be the first step in enabling them to seek help; e.g. ‘How are things at home?’ and if it becomes appropriate, ‘Is anyone hurting you?’
• Do try wherever possible to talk in a safe, private place where you will not be interrupted, or arrange to talk again (but someone in distress may start talking anywhere).
• Do try to make it clear that complete confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, depending on the nature of what is disclosed. Whilst you might respect an individual’s right to confidentiality this cannot be guaranteed i.e. when someone is being hurt and a criminal offence has been committed, someone is in danger, or when children are involved.
• Do take plenty of time to listen and believe what they say. If they sense disbelief they may be discouraged from speaking again.

Immediate action

• Do dial 999 (112 in Europe) if you are witnessing a violent incident or if the person needs medical care. If the victim is in immediate danger, the police should be called. Be aware that intervention may heighten risk, but it is important to explore how to ensure people are safe.
• The safety of children is paramount. If children are involved, a referral to Children’s Service needs to be made in addition to calling the police; if possible, encourage the victim to make the referral themselves, perhaps supporting them through the process. The DSA will also need to be informed.

Your response to the disclosure

• Do be sensitive to people’s backgrounds and cultures and check your own and their understanding of how the cultural issues affect them. Ask them about what support is available to them from friends and family.
• Do affirm the strength and courage it takes to have survived the abuse and even more to talk about it.
• Do encourage them to seek professional help from a local domestic abuse service who will be able to offer practical safety planning advice, even if they do not want to leave their home. In addition give information about national specialist helplines and websites, as required (see Appendix 9).
• Do express concern for their safety and immediate welfare. Do they have somewhere to stay?
• Do ask about the children and their safety and welfare. You may need to persuade them to report any concerns to children’s social care. You have no option but to do so if you have received information that a child is at risk.
• Do encourage them to focus on their own needs, something they may not have been able to do since the abuse began but which is critical in helping them to change their situation.
• Do reassure them that, whatever the circumstances, abuse is not justified and not their fault.
• Do ask them what they want from you and the parish. Offer help which is in response to their needs and preferences and which lets them keep in control.

Record keeping and follow up

Appendix 7 covers issues of confidentiality and data protection. Summary guidance is as follows:

• Do check if it is all right to contact them at home before doing so. Ask them what their preferred means of contact is and confirm that this is safe.
• Do keep information confidential and as a general rule only share with informed consent where appropriate and if possible, respect the wishes of those who do not give consent to share confidential information. You should note that it may still be possible to share confidential information without consent if, in your judgement, it is necessary and proportionate to do so (i.e. there is a good reason), such as where the safety of the victim or (an) other(s) may be at risk. Always keep a record of your decision and the reasons why you decided to share (or not). If in doubt contact the DSA and the Diocesan Registrar.
• Do make a brief objective note of date, facts and context of what you have been told but keep your opinions separate. This should be kept in strict confidence but could be useful in any future prosecution (see Safeguarding Records: Joint Practice Guidance for the Church of England and the Methodist Church (2015)).
• You must share the incident with someone who is qualified within 24 hours and can support you to help you to think through the issues and action. This may be the DSA or local safeguarding officer/lead.
• Do seek advice from the DSA or local safeguarding officer/lead to review the safety and risk issues in relation to the alleged perpetrator if they are in the same church. There may need to be a risk assessment and ‘safeguarding agreement’ put in place in line with House of Bishops practice guidance. This work needs be undertaken in consultation with the DSA.
• Victim safety planning should be conducted by a professional, ideally from a domestic abuse service or a statutory agency. There may be an occasion when a victim wishes to discuss their safety with you. It is essential that you seek advice from a DSA before entering into detailed safety planning discussions. This planning would normally be guided by a safety planning format (see Appendix 6) and careful consideration should be given to where and how such information is provided and kept by the victim, to avoid being accessed by the perpetrator.
• If the alleged perpetrator is a church officer you must talk to the DSA and follow the House of Bishops practice guidance on responding to serious safeguarding concerns in relation to church officers.
• Do not give information about the victim’s whereabouts to the perpetrator or to others who might pass information on to the perpetrator. Do not discuss with the parish council/other members of a congregation who might inadvertently pass information on to the perpetrator.
• When victims are leaving a controlling perpetrator, they often have to leave with nothing and have access to very limited financial support. Consider how your church can provide practical support to survivors.

Key telephone numbers for sources of help

● National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247

● Legal support (National Centre for Domestic Violence): 0844 8044 999 – provides a free, fast, emergency injunction service for victims of domestic abuse

● Male victims (Respect): 0808 801 0327

● Helpline for domestic abuse in same sex relationships: 0800 999 5428

2.1.1. Disclosure flowchart

It is recognised that it can be difficult to make a referral, which can be with or without the permission of the victim. Local Authority Social Care Departments are aware of the issues and sensitivities in relation to domestic abuse, and will ensure that they operate with professionalism and an awareness of the situation. Nevertheless, it is important that they are aware of the information concerning domestic abuse, so that they can act on it appropriately. It is not the role of the Church, nor anyone employed within the Church, to investigate the issues and incidents – only social care and the police have these statutory powers.

Please follow this process when you become aware of an incident of domestic abuse and violence.

Please note this flowchart will be made available as a separate document on the Church of England website.