Safeguarding Responsibility
We take our responsibility for child protection and safeguarding seriously. Safeguardng is everyone's responsibility and Safeguarding training is essential if you have frequent or regular contact with children, young people and/or adults at risk.
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.
Safeguarding children and adults at risk is a fundamental responsibility for any institution, including the Catholic Church. This duty is rooted in the Church's mission to uphold the dignity of every human being and protect the vulnerable, as reflected in Scripture and Church teachings.
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.
If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the safeguarding office for your diocese or religious congregation, or directly to the Police.
At Our Lady Help of Christians Church, we have formally adopted the
Safeguarding Policy Statement for the Diocese of Northampton, as a Parish Church within the Diocese. We also adhere to the
Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency policies and procedures.
Enhanced DBS Checks and safeguarding training are required for clergy and volunteer laity, as people in positions of trust.
Parish Safeguarding Representatives and Coordinators at the Diocese are able to review the safeguarding status of all volunteers and check their record of training, to ensure compliance with the expected standards.
A message from Bishop David
Importance of Safeguarding
The Catholic Church teaches that every human being is made in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). This belief underscores the need to protect the vulnerable and uphold their dignity. Throughout His ministry, Jesus emphasised the importance of caring for children, the marginalised, and the vulnerable. The Bible repeatedly calls on believers to care for those who are weak or at risk:
Psalm 82:3-4: "Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
Proverbs 31:8-9: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."
Practical Implications for the Catholic Church
The Church must have robust safeguarding policies to prevent abuse and ensure justice for victims:
Policies and Procedures.
Clergy and laypersons must receive training on safeguarding principles to create and maintain a safe environment:
Training and Accountability.
The Church is called to provide pastoral care, counseling, and justice for survivors of abuse:
Support for Victims.
Safeguarding in the Catholic Church is a vital expression of its mission to love, serve, and protect the vulnerable. Rooted in biblical principles, it calls for proactive measures to prevent harm and uphold the dignity of every person, reflecting Christ's own care and compassion.
