Safeguarding is a priority here

Citygate Church regards safeguarding and good working practice as a priority. In the interests of the safety and wellbeing of all children, young people and vulnerable adults, we operate a formal Safeguarding policy.

Two girls enjoying colouring and crafts during Citygate Kids.
A young girl colouring during Citygate Kids with a young leader supervising her.
Wide shot of the Citygate Church Bournemouth congregation on a Sunday morning.


The church is committed to ensuring that everyone working with children, young people or vulnerable adults:

  • Is a member of the church

  • Has a reference obtained by the Safeguarding Lead

  • Has undergone a Disclosure and Barring Service check

  • Is adequately trained and supervised

  • Understands and follows the Citygate Church Safeguarding policy

Citygate believes that safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility, but as part of this church’s commitment to children, young people and vulnerable adults, it has appointed the Safeguarding leadership team below.

Our Safeguarding Team

  • Smiling man in yellow hoodie against white background.

    Tim Francis

    Adult and Child Designated Safeguarding Lead

  • Smiling man with red hair and beard, wearing a blue checkered shirt.

    Ed Briggs

    Deputy Adult Safeguarding Lead

  • Smiling person with long dark hair, wearing a lace top and a striped cardigan.

    Stacy Gilchrist

    Deputy Youth Safeguarding Lead

  • Talitha Forster

    Deputy Child Safeguarding Lead

  • Smiling woman looking away against white background

    Sarah Dixon

    Southbourne Safeguarding Liason

  • Smiling woman with glasses and brown hair wearing a black hoodie.

    Ellie Southey

    Safer Recruitment Administrator

  • Person with long brown hair wearing glasses and a red top, smiling at the camera.

    Louise Edwards

    Safer Recruitment Support

Our Safeguarding Statement

Citygate Church:

  • recognises that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility

  • is committed to supporting parents and families

  • recognises the unique and individual worth of each child

  • is committed to nurturing, protecting and safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults

  • exercises care in the appointment of all those working with children, young people and vulnerable adults in the church, working to government guidance and principles

  • is committed to following statutory and specialist guidelines in working with children, young people, and vulnerable adults

  • seeks to support all those affected by abuse

  • is committed to supporting, training and resourcing those who work with children, young people and vulnerable adults and to providing regular supervision

  • is committed to the management and supervision of known offenders in the church

  • will review its Safeguarding policy biennially

If you have any questions or would like to read our Safeguarding policy please contact safeguarding@citygate.church

How to report a safeguarding concern

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If you notice signs of abuse or have concerns on the wellbeing of others, don't delay, please fill in this disclosure form. This form is sent to the Safeguarding Team who will then assess the appropriate next course of action. The team aims to respond back within three working days.

Children sat in a circle during a Citygate Kids session, some with their hands up to answer a question.