St. Thomas’ Church is a significant church building in Heaton Chapel. It is also the oldest church in the Heatons. The early building was constructed as a Chapel of Ease c1758 and was consecrated by the Bishop of Chester in 1765. In 2015 St. Thomas’ celebrated its 250th anniversary as a place of worship in Heaton Chapel.

It is from our historic church that the district of Heaton Chapel takes its name. It is included in Stockport Boroughs list of significant buildings as a building ‘of interest’ and consequently is featured regularly by historians in publications relating to the Heatons.

Jesus is the light of the world

Our Mission, Values and Principles

St. Thomas’ Church is a congregation of people brought together in the worship of God and service of our community.

We accept all members and visitors, irrespective of race, gender, disability or sexual orientation.

St. Thomas’ places a strong emphasis on offering support to those in need of fellowship and a sense of belonging within its spiritual framework. We welcome all those committed to alleviating poverty and hardship in the community and beyond.

We WELCOME you and would love to have you visit us.

God is love

Safe Church

St Thomas’ Church PCC adopted The Diocese of Manchester Safe Church Policy. A copy of this policy can be found on the notice board in the entrance way of Church or obtained from our Safeguarding Officer, Lesley Fairfax.

The Safeguarding Officer will ensure that the policy is reviewed, updated and adopted on an annual basis. This was reviewed in May 2022 and again at the APCM in 2023.

Policy Statement on Children, Young People, Vulnerable Adults at the Church of St Thomas, Heaton Chapel

This statement was agreed at the APCM meeting held in April 2023.

As a church community, we are committed to:

  • The care, nurture of and respectful pastoral ministry with all children and adults.
  • The safeguarding and protection of all children and adults.
  • The establishment of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment, where there is a culture of ‘informed vigilance’ regarding the dangers of abuse, which:

For children and young people

  • values them for who they are and nurtures their positive development;
  • enables them to participate fully and contribute to their church community;
  • protects them from actual or potential harm.

For adults who may be vulnerable, including those suffering domestic abuse

  • ensures that all people feel welcomed, respected and safe from abuse
  • encourages these who may be vulnerale
    • to lead as independent a life as possible
    • to choose how to lead their life; and
    • to be active contributors to the church community
  • protects those who may be vulnerable from actual or potential harm.

For all people

  • enables and encourages concerns to be raised and responded to openly and consistently;
  • offers support and care for those suffering, or who have suffered, from any for, of abuse;
  • promotes respect and the value of each person as a child of God.

We are, therefore, committed to best practice according to the national policies and guidelines of the Church of England, in the protection of children and vulnerable people; in the recruitment, training and supervision of all who exercise a pastoral ministry; and in responding to any allegations or complaints. This policy is reviewed each year by the Parochial Church Council and re-affirmed at the Annual Meeting.

Churchwarden:         Elizabeth Lee                    Date: June 2023

Because we understand that:

God has a special care for those who struggle. All of us at different periods of our lives are vulnerable and in need of help. We can make a difference.