The SNU were recently pleased to welcome our new Safeguarding Manager, Gemma, to her post.
In this special update article, Gemma discusses her first weeks in the role, and the plans and priorities going forward for the Union in the important field of Safeguarding.
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Building a Safer, Stronger SNU Together
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the privilege of spending time across both the Spiritualists’ National Union and Arthur Findlay College — meeting members, tutors, students, and church communities. What stands out most is the shared commitment to creating environments that are welcoming, respectful, and supportive.
Safeguarding sits at the heart of that.
Not as something separate, but as part of how we care for one another — in our churches, in our learning spaces, and in our wider community.
A consistent and supportive approach
We are beginning to put in place a more consistent approach to safeguarding across the SNU and AFC.
This includes:
- A clear and accessible reporting route, so concerns can be raised easily and appropriately
- Greater clarity around roles and responsibilities, so everyone understands how to act when something doesn’t feel right
- Development of guidance and tools to support churches and the College in making confident, proportionate decisions
“We are beginning to put in place a more consistent approach to safeguarding across the SNU and AFC.”
Supporting both safety and learning
At Arthur Findlay College, safeguarding and wellbeing are closely connected.
As a residential and learning environment, it is important that students feel:
- physically safe
- emotionally supported
- able to learn and develop with confidence
We are beginning to strengthen this through:
- clearer expectations around conduct and respectful behaviour
- guidance to support tutors in responding to wellbeing concerns
- a more structured approach to raising and managing concerns when they arise
This is about creating an environment where people can learn, grow, and feel safe to do so.
Working alongside churches
Across our churches, we recognise the vital role that volunteers and committees play.
We are working towards:
- clearer guidance on what to do when concerns arise
- improved access to support and advice
- a more consistent approach across Districts
This is not about changing the heart of our churches – it is about supporting them to feel confident in responding when needed.
“If we hold that every person has worth, dignity, and responsibility for their actions, then safeguarding is how we live those principles in practice.”
Looking ahead
This is the beginning of a wider programme of work to strengthen safeguarding across the SNU.
Over the coming months, you will see:
- further guidance and resources
- clearer processes
- opportunities to build confidence and understanding
This work is being developed with care, and with respect for the values and community that make the SNU what it is.
Final thoughts
Safeguarding is not separate from our beliefs — it reflects them.
If we hold that every person has worth, dignity, and responsibility for their actions, then safeguarding is how we live those principles in practice.
It is how we care for one another, how we act with integrity, and how we ensure that our churches and learning spaces remain places of trust, respect, and safety.
That is something we all share in – and something we build together.
If you would like advice or support, you can contact:
📧 safeguarding@snu.org.uk
Gemma Faraway
Safeguarding Manager
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this post, please feel free to get in touch.