What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding is as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Catholic Church.

Our parishes and communities can enable us to provide safe places of welcome where we can support and protect one another.

Shrewsbury Diocese is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Church. Every human being has a value and dignity which we, as Catholics, recognise as coming directly from God’s creation in his own image and likeness. Therefore, our parishes and communities must be safe places of welcome where we support and protect one another. We must take particular care of those who may be vulnerable and respond compassionately to their needs to help keep them safe from harm or abuse. Everyone in the Catholic Church has a responsibility to safeguard and promote the wellbeing of those around them and those engaging in activities provided by the Church. How we approach this is to adopt the and develop upon the 8 National Safeguarding Standards as set out by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency.

The adoption of these standards demonstrates the commitment of the diocese to achieve the ‘One Church’ approach of safeguarding practice and continual progression for cultural change. Diocesan staff, clergy, volunteers, and representatives are expected promote these safeguarding standards and safeguarding practices in parishes.

The Diocese of Shrewsbury adopts the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA). Alongside those available on this website other Safeguarding Policies can be viewed here https://catholicsafeguarding.org.uk/resources/national-safeguarding-policy/