The NSPCC has created a new webpage with information and advice for parents or carers who are worried a child or young person may be struggling with their mental health or has anxiety about coronavirus. The webpage includes information on: talking about feelings and worries; keeping in touch and balancing screen time; ways to create structure and routine; and helping to give children a sense of control. Read the information and advice: Talking to a child worried about coronavirus (COVID-19).

Domestic Abuse

We know that for those experiencing domestic abuse, self isolating at home presents additional dangers. Women’s Aid have provided some specific safety advice.

Working Safely Online With Children and Young People

Please see some helpful resources below:

- Mission and ministry with children and young people

- A Guide To Working With Children And Young People Online

- A Template Zoom registration form

- NST Zoom Instruction and Risk Assessment

- NST Safer Environment and Activities

- NST Code of Safer Working Practice

- NST Video Calling Youth Work

- Guidance For Online Youth Work

- Support for parents

Online and Digital Church

Running virtual services and online worship

- Legal regulations around streaming services: Here's the guidance (see Livestreaming topics in the FAQ's 'Prayer and Worship' section) given by the Church of England's national Digital Team.

- Click here for The Church of England’s advice on Livestreaming for beginners

Everybody Welcome Online

Here’s some really useful analysis and reflection on how churches have been using streaming, social media and other new technologies over the last few weeks. While we’re aware that not all churches have the resources (or broadband coverage!) to do “virtual” church, these are some detailed early observations which many will find useful, and includes suggestions on how to make online church as welcoming and visitor-friendly as possible. A further two documents have now been released, one update building on the original, and one looking to the future.

Zoom

If your church uses Zoom, please see these updated guidelines and accompanying consent form which include information on obtaining permissions and safeguarding implications (with some particular reference to those under the age of 16) for Zoom meetings and gatherings:

- Zoom meeting guidelines

- Consent Form

- Church of England Labs Learning Blogs on using Zoom, social media etc

- Download this document with hints and tips for Zoom good practice for your wellbeing.

- Advice for Leading Groups Online

Wellbeing and Mental Health

Wellbeing of clergy and other church leaders/employees

We give thanks for all the pastoral care and support being offered in parishes throughout the diocese to those particularly affected by the pandemic. We also recognise that clergy and church leaders/employees are themselves affected in different ways, so here is a link to some wellbeing resources and materials specifically for clergy and church leaders/employees

The national church have published guidance regarding the personal risk factors to clergy, church workers and volunteers.

Mental Health Support

Please visit our Wellbeing page that gives details of support available through the diocese.

Everyday Faith at Home

Since the start of lockdown we have had to find new ways to live out our Everyday Faith at Home. We've now created a new webpage on which we have gathered some resources and tools you might want to access to aid in your personal discipleship from home. Click here to visit our 'Everyday Faith at Home' page.