The following protocol is followed by the Diocesan Safeguarding Panel:
- A review will be commissioned as soon as possible but only when in the view of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) and Independent Chair of the Panel, the inquiry and investigation work has been completed to a level consistent with commencement of a review.
- A review can only be initiated when it is considered that this will not compromise any clergy discipline measure case, criminal or civil litigation.
- The decision to commission a review is made by the DSA, Diocesan Secretary and Independent Chair of the Panel.
- Agreement of purpose, timescale and draft terms of reference is reached between the Diocesan Bishop, Diocesan Secretary and Independent Chair. The Independent Chair provides a scrutiny role on behalf of the Panel.
On establishing the review, the following tasks and responsibilities take place concurrently:
- Resourcing agreement between Independent Chair and Diocesan Secretary timescales for review are set;
- Information is sent to key participants and interested parties - overseen by the DSA/Chair;
- The diocesan or area bishop assumes responsibility for support and wellbeing matters related to clergy/personnel;
- A clear support plan is in place for Parish/location with lead senior personnel;
- Support arrangements in place for victims, witnesses and any potential other people affected;
- Specification set (skills and experience) for reviewer(s) and selection exercise, consistent with the needs of the review undertaken by Independent Chair and HR lead;
- Arrangements in place for quality assurance and independent professional supervision throughout the period of the review.