Updated safeguarding requirements support safer bellringing

The Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers, working in partnership with the Diocese of Peterborough, is introducing updated safeguarding requirements to help ensure bellringing remains a safe and welcoming activity for everyone.

The updated requirements provide clear guidance for towers and ringing bands on how the Diocese’s Safer Church expectations apply specifically to bellringing. They recognise the important role played by the Guild, tower captains and local ringing communities in creating a positive and safe environment for ringers of all ages.

Under the arrangements, tower captains, leaders, trainers and anyone involved in teaching bellringing will need an appropriate DBS check and safeguarding training. All bellringers will also be asked to complete the Basic Safeguarding Awareness course, while those undertaking leadership or training roles will complete the Leadership Training Pathway.

At least one person with a current DBS certificate will need to be present at every practice or ringing session, with additional provisions in place for young ringers, visiting bands and those who are not attached to a particular parish. Towers will also keep a simple register of those attending ringing sessions.

The Guild and Diocese hope the requirements will provide a clear and consistent approach across our church towers, supporting bellringers as they continue to share their skills, welcome new people and sustain the important tradition of church bellringing.

Read the full requirements here