Press Release from the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service (CSAS)
The third Annual Report outlining the work of the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission and the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service is being launched on 28 July 2011. This Report highlights the many positive developments in the safeguarding ministry in the Catholic Church in England and Wales whilst acknowledging there is no room for complacency. This is particularly true in relation to the Church’s response to survivors of abuse.
The NCSC is both challenged and heartened by the fact that last year and, in particular, following the Pope’s visit more people have felt confident enough to come forward to report incidents of abuse in the hope of finding some kind of reconciliation and closure. Working to provide a safe and encouraging framework to support survivors is a top priority for the NCSC.
NCSC DEVELOPMENTS 2010–11
During the last year the NCSC has been working to achieve its 3 strategic priorities:
• Developing a more appropriate response to survivors
• Monitoring safeguarding practice through a national audit process.
• Organising and hosting the Anglophone Safeguarding Conference in Rome, June 2011.
CSAS DEVELOPMENTS 2010–11
During the last year CSAS has supported the NCSC in achieving its strategic priorities and also undertaken a number of other key activities across the Church in England and Wales. These include:
• Commencing a review of the National Policy for Creating a Safe Environment.
• Continuing the Review of Organisational Structures commenced in 2009 with national standards to be achieved in several areas e.g. training and induction.
• Launching a web based resource, in collaboration with others, to help those affected by domestic abuse
The report stresses that the work of the national organisations must be seen in the context of the safeguarding activity which takes place every day in the dioceses, parishes and religious orders. The report commends the committed individuals who give freely of their time and expertise to the church as well as the many skilled safeguarding staff employed at national and diocesan level. It gives examples of some of the work undertaken. It also provides statistics for the last year – including CRB checks, allegations and covenants of care.
Rose Anderson
Secretary to the NCSC
rose.anderson@cbcew.org.uk
catholicsafeguarding.org.uk
csas.uk.net
