SAFEGUARDING

Our vision is that the Catholic Church in England and Wales is a safe place for all.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Together, we aim to build a church where people feel safe, respected, and able to flourish in faith and life.

Reporting Concerns:

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police. If you believe there is immediate danger, please dial 999. If the incident is not ongoing or the person is not in imminent danger, ring 101 and ask for the police force for the area where the concern exists.

If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the diocesan safeguarding office or religious congregation, or directly to the police. If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and also to the diocesan safeguarding office by calling 01642 850505 or emailing safeguarding@rcdmidd.org.uk

You can also contact Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) on

0207 901 1920.

If you have concerns and wish to remain anonymous, CrimeStoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111.

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.

Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces is a free national support service which offers confidential, personal, and safe space for anyone who has been abused through their contact with either the Church of England, the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

The service continues to be independent of the Church of England and the Catholic Church in England and Wales and provides trauma-informed information, emotional support and advocacy.

HELPLINE : 0300 303 1056

WEBSITE: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk

OPENING HOURS:Monday to Friday 9am – 9pm
Saturday 9am – 1pm
Sunday 1pm – 5pm