A CONFERENCE on safeguarding, child protection and benefits of registering as a charity took place in Brierfield.

The event, at the St Luke's Parish Hall, was opened by Andrew Stephenson, MP for Pendle, with his opening remarks stressing the importance of the subjects covered by the conference.

Professional experts in the field spoke and led workshops on child protection, safeguarding, strengthening leadership within faith and voluntary organisations including highlighting legal requirements and registration as charity with the charity commission.

General secretary of Burnley & Pendle Friends' League, Mozaquir Ali, who chaired the

conference said: "Protecting and safeguarding children in our faith and voluntary organisations is paramount and a key concern for parents, teachers, volunteers, community and faith groups.

"We all have an important role to play and ensure we keep our children safe from any form of harm."