Safeguarding

Safeguarding in the catholic church

"All components of the Catholic Church in Scotland, especially those in positions of leadership and responsibility, values the lives, wholeness, safety and well-being of each individual person within God's purpose for everyone.

We seek to uphold the highest safeguarding standards in our relationships with people of all ages who are involved in whatever capacity with the Church and its organisations.

And, therefore, as a Church community, we accept that it is the responsibility of all of us - ordained, professed, employed and voluntary members - to work together to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse or harm."

In God's Image, May 2018

Support for survivors within the catholic church

"Survivors of abuse of any form deserve the greatest care and respect. Their courage in coming forward to disclose their experience to personnel within the Church can never be underestimated. So, Church personnel must take care to provide an immediacy of response (as well as sensitive care) to anyone who wishes to talk about the harm they have suffered."

(In God’s Image, page 34)

Should anyone wish to seek support or assistance as a result of harm caused within the Catholic Church please contact:

Veronica McKenna - Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor

Tel: 01698 269114 (option 3 safeguarding)

Email: veronicamckenna@rcdom.org.uk

Or write to: Safeguarding Advisor, Diocesan Centre, Coursington Road, Motherwell, ML1 1PP

Raphael Counselling Service

The Raphael Counselling Service has been established to offer support to anyone who has suffered abuse in the Catholic Church in Scotland. Counselling is provided by Health in Mind, an independent professional Counselling service, and is funded by the Catholic Church in Scotland.

Please contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor using the details above should you wish to access Counselling support.