Safeguarding

The Archdiocese of Birmingham has a zero-tolerance approach to all Abuse. It is vital that our churches are safe for all — as part of that commitment we take our safeguarding responsibilities very seriously. 

Reporting Abuse
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police, using 999 if a child or adult is believed to be in immediate danger.

It is the policy of the Catholic Church in England and Wales to report all allegations of abuse to statutory authorities, regardless of whether the abuse occurred recently or in the past, or whether the accused person is living or deceased.

As per the code of conduct, if you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the Safeguarding Team in your diocese or religious congregation, or directly to the police.

If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and to the Diocesan Safeguarding office on 0121 230 6240 (safeguarding@rcaob.org.uk).

All Church activity should provide a safe environment which promotes and supports the wellbeing of everyone and protects them from harm.

The Catholic Church in England and Wales has committed to a common set of National safeguarding standards to help protect children and adults who may be vulnerable or at risk. Each Diocese has a Safeguarding Team and a Trustee Sub Committee, which has oversight of that work.

At St Patrick's, our Parish Safeguarding Representative is Kay Fenlon, sg.stpatrick.newcross@rcaob.org.uk

They provide the link between the parish and the safeguarding team, promote safe practice in all activities involving children and adults and advice on safeguarding matters in the parish.

Both in our church and hall, we display the Policy Statement of the Archdiocese of Birmingham on Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults:

• The Dignity and Sanctity of every human life is God given;
• Every child has the right to love and protection;
• We abhor the abuse to which some children and vulnerable adults are subjected;
• By following the policies agreed by the Bishops of England and Wales we will strive to ensure that risks are minimised (these policies can be accessed at www.csas.uk.net/procedures-manual).

All parish clergy and volunteers require a specific DBS check, as do all Foundation Governors at St Patrick’s school. We are mindful of child protection issues in our outings and events in the parish.

The Diocesan Safeguarding Team:  0121 230 6240, safeguarding@rcaob.org.uk

They provide advice to safeguarding representatives and parish priests and manage more serious safeguarding concerns. They have responsibility for Diocesan-wide policy, practice and training and safer recruitment processes.

For more details visit: https://www.birminghamdiocese.org.uk/Pages/FAQs/Category/safeguarding

Non-Church organisations you can turn to:Call Childline on 0800 111111

You can talk to Childline about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call them free on 0800 1111 or get in touch online.