Bridgwater Baptist Church has a long history, having been founded early in the 17th Century.
We base our faith and practice on the Bible and the teaching of Jesus Christ. We practise believer’s baptism by immersion and communion is open to all.
We are linked to the South Western Baptist Association and the Baptist Union. We also have links with mission workers in Nepal through BMS World Mission.
Church Leadership
The Building’s History
The first chapel on this site was built in 1692 behind a row of cottages.
That chapel was demolished in 1837 to allow the building of a larger and more imposing structure.
The cottages were demolished in the 1850s.
Over the years there have been some additions, alterations and improvements, but the building is still very much used by various community groups as well as the church.
The large hall and the toilets have recently been refurbished and modernised, and there is also a good sized kitchen.
We have been working on an exciting initiative to restore and repurpose more of our premises which you can read about on the Energise Project here.
Safeguarding
Protecting children and adults at risk of harm.
The Bridgwater Baptist church is dedicated to ensuring the protection and welfare of children and vulnerable adults who are entrusted to its care. We recognize that these individuals can suffer from neglect, as well as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Consequently, the church has established a Safeguarding policy and implemented procedures that align with statutory requirements and guidance from the Baptist Union. The church understands the importance of fostering positive relationships with both statutory and voluntary organizations involved in safeguarding, and in this regard, BBC:
- Welcomes children and vulnerable adults into our community
- Organizes activities that are safe and suitable for children and vulnerable adults
- Offers its facilities to organizations that work with children and vulnerable adults
Safeguarding responsibilities
The church acknowledges its duty to safeguard all children, young people, and vulnerable adults, irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, or abilities. As members of this church, we pledge to nurture, protect, and care for everyone associated with the church, and we will pray for them regularly. In this endeavor, we commit to this policy and to developing effective procedures for its implementation.
Prevention and reporting of abuse
Every church member has a responsibility to help prevent the abuse of children and vulnerable adults and to address any concerns regarding their well-being. Any instances of abuse that are disclosed, discovered, or suspected will be reported according to the procedures outlined in the Safeguarding policy. The church will fully cooperate with any statutory investigations related to suspected abuse associated with the church.
Safer recruitment, support, and supervision of workers
The church will take great care in the selection and appointment of individuals working with children and vulnerable adults, whether they are paid or volunteers. All workers will receive appropriate training, support, and supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable adults.
Respecting children and adults at risk
The church will implement a code of conduct for all individuals appointed to work with children and vulnerable adults, ensuring that they receive the respect they deserve.
Enhanced safety measures
The church is dedicated to creating an environment that prioritizes the safety of children and vulnerable adults, adopting practices that enhance their safety and well-being.
A safer community
The church is focused on preventing bullying. It will strive to manage the behavior of any individuals who may pose a risk to children, young people, and vulnerable adults within the church community appropriately.
Safeguarding Contacts
The church has appointed the following individuals to form part of the church safeguarding team:
Designated Person for Safeguarding (DPS) – advises the church on any matters related to the safeguarding of children and adults at risk and takes the appropriate action when abuse is disclosed, discovered or suspected.
The church minister is also an important member of the Church Safeguarding Team.
Useful Contacts
- Childline (for children): 0800 1111
- NCA Child Exploitation and Online Protection: www.ceop.police.uk
- Somerset Safeguarding (children and adults): 0300 123 2224 (Out of hours 0300 123 2327)
- Police: 101 or 999 in an emergency