THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BIRMINGHAM
SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT
The Archdiocese of Birmingham has a zero-tolerance approach to all Abuse.
Reporting abuse
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.
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.
As per the code of conduct, if you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the Safeguarding Team in your diocese or religious congregation, or directly to the police.
If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and to the Diocesan Safeguarding office on 0121 230 6240 (safeguarding@rcaob.org.uk).
All Church activity should provide a safe environment which promotes and supports the wellbeing of everyone and protects them from harm.
The Catholic Church in England and Wales has committed to a common set of national safeguarding standards to help protect children and adults who may be at risk. Each Diocese has a Safeguarding Team and a Trustee Sub-Committee, which has oversight of that work.
Each parish has a Safeguarding Representative(s). They provide the link between the parish
and the safeguarding team, promote safe practice in all activities
involving children and adults and advice on safeguarding matters in the
parish.St Michael's, Sonning Common parish Safeguarding Representative: Mary Lewis
sg.stmichael.sonningcommon@rcaob.org.uk
The Diocesan Safeguarding Team
Tel: 0121 230 6240, Email: safeguarding@rcaob.org.uk
They provide advice to safeguarding representatives and parish priests and manage more serious safeguarding concerns. They have responsibility for Diocesan-wide policy, practice and training and safer recruitment processes.
Head of Safeguarding: Claire Reay
Deputy Head of Safeguarding: Bev Lewis
Safeguarding Advisor: Susan Behan
Safeguarding Advisor: Jayne Pullinger
Safeguarding Advisor: Charlotte McKennaSenior Office Adminstrator: Angela Arkley
Administration Support Officer: Jackie Crawford
Administration Support Officer: Sarah Lester
Online Safeguarding Training
CSSA Level 3 free to access, see regisration at www.training.catholicsafeguarding.org.uk or visit CSSA www.catholicsafeguarding.org.uk and find section for training.
Safe Spaces is an independent and confidential support service for adults who have been abused by someone in the Church. If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can support you.
Free helpline: 0300 303 1056
The Isaiah Journey - A Guide for Survivors of Abuse
