Safeguarding

DESPITE THE CLOSURE of parishes and diocesan offices as a result of the pandemic, the Safeguarding team continued its work across four key areas in 2020:

Recognising and Responding to Concerns/Allegations: Responding to safeguarding concerns and allegations (current and historic): 188 consultations (259 in 2019)

Safeguarding case files were opened requiring ongoing management and liaison with statutory authorities: 49 (39 in 2019).

The work is complex, ensuring at every stage that the victim/survivor is listened to, responded to respectfully and offered the appropriate level of support. The Safeguarding Commission have continued to offer advice and oversight for a remote working model.

Creating a Safe Environment: The restrictions imposed as a result of COVID-19 have seen a shift to online activities, but a high level of contact was also maintained with Parish Safeguarding Representatives (PSRs) and Parish Priests. Additionally, Cardinal Nichols launched the ‘Caring Safely for Others’ national guidance to clergy on pastoral standards and safe conduct in ministry.

244 clergy received Safeguarding training.

50 PSRs attended the conference focusing on victims and survivors in March.

Safeguarding plans were put in place to manage the assessed risk of parishioners, volunteers and clergy: 8 (15 in 2019)

Safer recruitment: The Safer Recruitment process has been severely affected by COVID-19, resulting in lower DBS numbers than predicted this year. However, our PSRs have risen to the challenge and adapted their working methods to an online model which allowed the continued processing of applications even when Vaughan House was closed.

DBS Processed: 1136 (1657 in 2019).

105 PSRs had a DBS recheck to ensure compliance with the diocesan policy of rechecking every three years.

Creating a culture of Safeguarding: We continue to assist all departments across the diocese to integrate safeguarding into their work. During 2020 we provided support to Westminster Cathedral to produce a comprehensive set of policies and procedures.

(Please see page 29 for further details.)

Signs on a parish church door explaining how parishioners can keep themselves and others safe while praying in the church.