Practice Guidance no.4

Father Christmas

In response to the seasonal question about visits to churches of Father Christmas, the following guidance is offered to parishes dealing with the practicalities.

By the nature of their work it is assumed that Father Christmas figures will have a brief annual role which brings them into direct communication and contact with children. The role is sensitive and all applicants are likely to be aware of the special and highly original qualities of the post which inevitably mean that there is the potential for allegations of inappropriate behaviour. To avoid this, and to ensure that all post holders and children are as safe as possible, it is suggested that the following procedures should be adopted by parishes:

• Ideally any Father Christmas should have an Enhanced CRB Disclosure.
• All arrangements for children to see Father Christmas should be held in an environment where there is another adult present. These other adults should have a Standard CRB disclosure.
• It is good practice for parents or carers to accompany their child to see Father Christmas.

The enjoyment of Christmas for children and adults is doubtless due to its magical quality. We want all children to be able to treasure memories of their meeting with Father Christmas and these guidelines are set out to ensure that, as far as possible, everyone can relax and enjoy the season.

Elaine Rose
Diocesan Child Protection Adviser
Revised December 2005