The Christian Forum for Safeguarding (CFS) is a group made up of the primary and national-level Safeguarding Leads from the majority of mainstream Christian denominations, movements and networks across the UK.

It exists to enable its members to support each another, consult together and, where possible, to cooperate on safeguarding matters affecting the UK Christian Church and those represented at the forum.

Formed in the year 2000 by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI), it has met regularly since that time. The forum is currently chaired by Karen Eakins (Head of Safeguarding at Thirtyone:eight), with the secretariat being provided by Thirtyone:eight, the independent Christian safeguarding charity.

The objectives of the forum are to:

  • Share information and insights on safeguarding issues, and to encourage good practice.
  • Provide mutual support to those engaged in safeguarding work.
  • Encourage, develop and support appropriate training resources and opportunities.
  • Facilitate good communication and systems for sharing information to assist in this constantly developing field.

And when appropriate to:

  • Develop common standards and practice and to encourage their adoption.
  • Make representations to government and other bodies on matters of common concern.
  • Be represented as a collective voice in responding to safeguarding matters of public concern.

The forum meets a minimum of three times per year to learn about and discuss key topics of interest. Recent topics have included: The use of Non-Disclosure Agreements, Duty of Candour, Spiritual Abuse, Online Safety, The Truth Project (IICSA), Safe Spaces Initiative, Bullying in Young People, Counter Terrorism, Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), and Gender Identity & Safeguarding.

Current members:

For further information contact: info@thirtyoneeight.org