Welcome to Guarding the Flock

Hello friends,

Guarding the Flock was born from years spent inside systems and organisations where safeguarding too often came second to reputation. I have encountered safeguarding and church leadership so thwarted that it ceased to function as a source of guidance or care. Instead, it was weaponised, turned into a tool of control that scrutinised with suspicion those who most needed understanding and support. The very structures meant to protect became instruments of harm.

The same patterns repeated again and again:

• Warnings ignored

• Survivors sidelined

• People labelled as “difficult” or “not resilient” for asking for help

• Risks quietly shifted behind closed doors

  
  

Image outweighed integrity. Reputation trumped safeguarding. That has to change.

Now working independently, I provide objective, trauma-informed safeguarding support to churches, charities, and faith-based organisations that want to do better—not just appear better.

My experience spans many traditions across the Church. I don’t speak from a theological or doctrinal position—I speak from a safeguarding one. And now, as an independent consultant, I’m no longer bound by institutional politics. That freedom means I can offer clear, balanced, evidence-based advice rooted in real-world experience.

Safeguarding should be revered—not feared.

Clergy, staff, and volunteers deserve support that meets today’s safeguarding standards—not just internal expectations. Guarding the Flock exists to meet that need.

If you’re ready for honest, independent safeguarding support delivered with compassion and integrity—I'm here to help.

I look forward to working with you,

Michelle

— Guarding the Flock

Guarding the Flock