Support & Contact - Diocese of Swansea & Brecon
Volunteer Handbook

Support & Contact

If something isn’t right, we want to hear from you. Here’s how to raise a concern, where to find our policies, and how to reach us.

Complaints or Concerns

In the Diocese of Swansea & Brecon, we want everyone to feel heard, supported, and safe. If something isn’t right, whether it’s something you’ve experienced or observed, we encourage you to speak up. Your voice matters.

We understand that raising a concern can feel daunting, but please know you won’t face any negative consequences for doing so. In fact, we recognise the courage it takes, and we are committed to supporting you through the process.

You can make an initial complaint verbally or in writing, whichever is easiest for you. Any safeguarding complaints or concerns should be addressed to the Provincial Safeguarding Team. The full process is provided here: Whistleblowing guidance (Safeguarding)

Details of the steps for non-safeguarding issues are outlined below:

Complainant Where possible, complaint taken to the person concerned Satisfactory Outcome no further action Unsatisfactory outcome Official Complaint (made verbally or in writing) Addressed to the appropriate supervisor (e.g. MA Leader, Archdeacon or line manager) Complaint Investigated Ensuring fairness for all parties. Relevant appeal process explained during proceedings. Unsatisfactory outcome Appeal Process (if required) and final outcome Unless there are reasons the complaint should not be taken directly to the person concerned (e.g. safeguarding, if you feel too emotional, or it is not appropriate).

Complainant

Where possible, a complaint should be taken to the person concerned — unless there are reasons why it should not be taken directly to the person (e.g. safeguarding, if you feel too emotional, or it is not appropriate).

Official Complaint Made (verbally or in writing)

The complaint should be addressed to the appropriate supervisor of the accused (e.g. for laity or MA employees it should be addressed to the Ministry Area Leader; for DBF Staff, it should be addressed to the line manager; for clergy it should be addressed to the relevant Archdeacon). Our diocese has two Archdeacons, Brecon and Gower. If you’re unsure who the correct person is, the Diocesan Office can help.

This person should address the grievance with a view to resolving it as expeditiously as possible. In any action taken the person responsible should ensure procedural fairness for all parties included. Explanation of the outcome will be forwarded to you, along with named individuals and process for appeal.

Policies and Relevant Documents

The policies and documents referred to in this handbook are available in full on the diocesan website or through the diocesan office.

Further Questions

Want to know more about volunteering, your rights and responsibilities, or policies and procedures? Please contact the diocesan office.

Contacts

The Diocesan Office

The Diocesan Centre
Unit 11
Penyfan Business Park
Ffrwdgrech Industrial Estate
Brecon, LD3 8LA

Telephone: 01874 623716
Email: diocese.swanbrec@cinw.org.uk

Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm

The Diocesan Centre building is closed to visitors on Mondays and Fridays, although staff are working and can be contacted via email and telephone as normal.

Provincial Safeguarding Team

Contact a member of the safeguarding team via the Church in Wales website:

Web: Report a safeguarding concern (churchinwales.org.uk)
Tel: 02920 348200


Volunteer Agreement Form

Download the Volunteer Agreement Form (Word document)

Please print, sign and date the downloaded form.

Please return this form to your supervisor.


Thank You

Thank you so much for offering your time, gifts, and heart in service to the Diocese of Swansea & Brecon.

We hope this handbook has given you helpful guidance and reassurance as you begin or continue your volunteering journey with us.

Your presence and contribution make a real difference. Whether you’re offering a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply showing up with kindness and care, you are helping to build a Church that reflects Christ’s love in action.

We’re truly grateful to have you with us, and we look forward to walking alongside you as part of this shared ministry.