This page shows National, Local and Diocesan contact numbers and websites for safeguarding care and support.
If you would like to report a concern or get further information, please contact our Cathedral Safeguarding Team or Diocesan Safeguarding Team.
In a safeguarding emergency please contact the Police on 999
The sections below are structured to help you find support based on your own personal circumstances.
Safe Spaces
Safe Spaces is a service for victims and survivors of church-related abuse. Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse in relation to the Church of England, the Church in Wales, or the Catholic Church of England and Wales. This could be abuse by someone who holds any role in the church or is linked to participating in a church-led activity or group.
If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have need to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent, unless you or someone else is in immediate danger.
Safe Spaces can provide a range of help, including advocating with authorities and other agencies, giving emotional support, providing information (including information on church and police procedures), understanding your needs and working together on individual support plans.
Tel: 0300 303 1056 (answerphone available outside of opening times)
Email: safespaces@victimsupport.org.uk
or LiveChat – via the Safe Spaces website
Other Resources
National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999 and is open every day from 12-2.30pm and 7-9.30pm.
Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (open 24 hours). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.
Replenished Life Support Line (website): 07746 153 703
Other Resources
Minister and Clergy Sexual Abuse Service (MACSAS)
NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are worried about a child.
Child-line: 0800 1111 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are a child or young person and are worried about anything.
Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (open 24 hours). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.
Past Cases Review 2 NSPCC helpline for Children and Adults: 0800 80 20 20
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (lines free and open 24 hours). Phone if you are experiencing domestic abuse.
LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428 help@galop.org.uk
Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 info@mensadviceline.org.uk
National Stalking Helpline (website) The National Stalking Helpline gives practical information, support, and advice to victims of stalking 0808 802 0300.
Kooth (website) Online mental wellbeing community. Free, safe and anonymous support
Keep Your Head (website) Keep Your Head brings together reliable information on mental health and wellbeing for children, adults and professionals
Samaritans Helpline: 116 123 (open 24 hours). Phone if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to.
Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602
Action on Elder Abuse Helpline: 0808 808 8141 (free phone Monday to Friday 9-5pm)
The Silver Line 0800 4 70 80 90 The Silver Line is the only confidential, free helpline for older people across the UK open every day and night of the year.
A list of helplines offering support on a range of issues can be found on the Church of England’s website at www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding/reporting-abuse-and-finding-support.