The National Catholic Safeguarding Commission has today published its Annual Report.
The Chair of the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission, Chris Pearson:
“Safeguarding is everyone’s business and it is not just a procedural process or duty. It must be at the centre of the Church’s mission that sees in action that victims and survivors of abuse are at the heart of what we do This report highlights in full the work of the Commission and this announcement is just a snapshot of some of that work and findings over the last year. As a result, we are moving towards a much more consistent and sensitive approach in response to the victims and survivors of abuse.”
National Pastoral Support Service.
This aims to enable survivors to make contact with the church in a way that makes it easier for them when they might otherwise find it difficult to do. The scheme is progressing and tenders will be prepared for submission to Bishops of England and Wales later in the year.
The Survivors Advisory Panel.
Has contributed to the development of policies and practice, and their input ensures that we keep survivors of abuse at the very heart of what we aim to do.
Data Collection.
This report covers full data from 2016 and is being launched earlier this year to bring the report closer to the collection of this data.
The E-learning safeguarding programme launched in 2015 is available to all members of the Catholic Community in England and Wales, free of charge. To date 4,339 learners have registered on each of the seven modules.
DBS Applications
During 2016 CSAS and its agents across Dioceses and Religious Congregations processed 14,909 DBS disclosure applications in England and Wales. This is a 16% increase on the number processed in 2015, and ensures that church recruitment processes follow National Guidelines.
Development of a Quality Assurance Framework (QAF).
This has progressed to a point close to completion. It will enable a more focused outcome approach and will enable us to more effectively determine outcomes and whether services are delivered effectively.
A copy of the annual report can be downloaded from the top right corner of this page or below:
National Catholic Safeguarding Commission
The National Catholic Safeguarding Commission (NCSC) is an independent body working within the framework of the Catholic Church in England and Wales. It is mandated by the Conference of Bishops and Conference of Religious Congregations and has accountability across Dioceses and Religious Congregations to ensure that standards are met and policies are implemented.
Established in 2008 the NCSC sets the strategic direction of the Church’s safeguarding policy for children and vulnerable adults. It also monitors and audits the compliance of the Church with safeguarding procedures. The NCSC has sixteen members who bring together a wide range of knowledge, skill and expertise in safeguarding matters, and in state and canon law. For further details see catholicsafeguarding.org.uk
