Safeguarding Sunday

We are all aware that the Catholic Church has been in the spotlight in the last fifteen years or so, over its handling of child abuse cases world wide. What is perhaps less well-known is that in England and Wales in the same period, much time and energy has been spent in striving to create a Church where all are safe from harm and abuse, and where everyone is encouraged to enjoy the fullness of life in Jesus Christ through the protective endeavours of the whole Catholic community.

In Nottingham Diocese, every parish has at least one safeguarding representative. Maria Boar is the safeguarding representative for both parishes. Their role is to try to prevent harm and abuse from occurring in the parish. They do this by ensuring that anyone who has a ministry with children, young people or vulnerable adults goes through a safe recruitment process and works safely in their ministry.  So for example there are at least two adult helpers with every ministry involving children or young people, and activities take place in an open environment. Those who have a ministry with vulnerable adults are also encouraged to minister safely, though there is no expectation that Extraordinary ministers work in pairs

They also promote vigilance and awareness of safeguarding issues in our parish. However safeguarding is the responsibility of every member of our parish community. We know that in every parish in our Diocese there may be people who have directly experienced abuse or harm. Anyone who has a concern or worry about the wellbeing of a child or vulnerable adult should voice this to Maria. Alternatively they can speak to the parish priest. The information will be passed on to the Diocesan Safeguarding Coordinator so that the issue can be properly dealt with.

In the Diocese we have a Safeguarding Commission to oversee all safeguarding matters, and to provide advice to the Bishop. There is independent representation from Police, Probation, Children and Adult Social Care services on the Commission, to ensure that safeguarding in the Diocese is transparent and open, and that the voices of the vulnerable can be heard.

Online Safeguarding Training (Educare)

Safeguarding Training Online
The Catholic Church offers FREE Safeguarding Training with a certificate on completion that evidences training towards Continuous Professional development (CPD) provided by EduCare. EduCare is an independent organisation offering high quality online safeguarding training.
We all have a role to play in safeguarding children, young people or adults who may be at risk and it is for this reason that the Catholic Church in England and Wales has worked with EduCare to bring you an e-learning package that will raise awareness throughout the Catholic Community in our countries. The e-learning package is part of the Church’s commitment to safeguarding, and is available to all members of the Catholic community free of charge.
Modules available are:
1. Child Protection
2. Child Protection Refresher 2019
3. Online safety
4. Mental Capacity
5. Safeguarding Adults
6. Safeguarding Adults Refresher

Included in each module are links to the latest research, resources, legislation, and guidance to support your learning. 
 
To register for EduCare online training, please email jane.black@dioceseofnottingham.uk with the following details:
- Your name
- email address
- your parish/Order/congregation
- your role 
 
You will be registered with EduCare, who will then send you a welcome email. 

Maria Boar (HAD)

0161 351 9157

Safeguarding Reps - Catholic Church in Longdendale

Clare McKensie

0115 953 9850

Safeguarding Coordinator for the Diocese