October already! The year is whizzing by so fast and I’m starting to see Christmas advertising which is a sharp reminder that the year is coming to a close. Another sign is that Branch AGM’s are starting to take place; Pat and myself will endeavour to join you where we can to review and celebrate the activities of the past year.
By the time you read this the Guild Striking Competitions will have taken place. Whilst we had 6 entries for the 6 Bell competition, sadly we only had 2 entries for the 8 Bell competition, so yet again we will be reviewing when we hold these competitions and what the format should be; if you have any views please do share them with myself or Pat to inform our thinking.
Various pieces of work are continuing behind the scenes; The Way Forward Group is continuing to work on Processes and Guidelines to support the implementation of the Rules which were adopted at the Guild AGM in May. The Education Committee is working on the job description for the Education Officer, an education policy, and guidance and a more comprehensive application form for Guild Education / Training Grants. The Website continues to be packed with interesting news and information, I have particularly enjoyed the new Learning Zone where there was recently a fascinating FAQ about Bell ropes. Thank you to Andy Waring who continues to keep the news flowing and to everyone who sends pieces in for publication, keep them coming!
Frank Marshall (Guild Safeguarding Officer) and myself are having some useful conversations with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, about DBS checks for Bellringers and developing stronger links with the team generally. Some of you may be aware that the umbrella provider that the Diocese used for undertaking DBS checks had a Data Breach recently. It only affects DBS checks undertaken through the Diocese, including via parishes, between December 2024 and May 2025 and if you were affected you will have been contacted by the Safeguarding team.
This Breach has raised the profile of DBS checks within parishes, including Parish responsibilities, and the Diocesan Safeguarding Team has confirmed that the Parish Safeguarding Officer/Incumbent should be undertaking Bellringers DBS checks and if they are not please let Frank Marshall know and he will liaise with the Diocesan team to resolve the issue. Each Incumbent has a legal responsibility to ensure Safeguarding is delivered in their parish. Also we will be writing some articles for the Website on good safeguarding practice to raise the profile of doing the right thing at every practice and ringing event, to try and prevent issues arising.
Finally, I am looking froward to seeing some ‘firsts’ achieved during Guild Quarter Peal ‘Week’ which runs from 1st to 9th November. The sense of achievement is fantastic, and experienced ringers also enjoy seeing the simile on someone’s face when they reach ‘That’s All’ in their first quarter, whether that’s a first ever, or in a new method. Go on, have a go!
Best wishes
Vicki
