Every human being has a value which we acknowledge as coming directly from God’s creation of male and female in his own image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). We believe therefore that all people should be valued, supported and protected from harm. We recognise the personal dignity and rights of vulnerable people, towards whom the Church has a special responsibility.
The Roman Catholic parish of St Robert of Newminster is committed to the safeguarding, care and nurture of the children and the vulnerable members within our church communities, and also to encouraging an environment where all people and especially those who may be vulnerable are able to worship and pursue their faith with encouragement and in safety. As such, the policies and procedures related to Safeguarding announced by the Catholic Bishops conference of England and Wales and adopted by the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle have been put into practice by our parish.
The Diocese is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Church. Supported by and in compliance with the policies and procedures of the Catholic Standards Safeguarding Agency (CSSA), we are striving towards a culture of safeguarding where all are safe from harm and abuse and where everyone is encouraged and enabled to enjoy the fullness of life In Jesus Christ through the prayerful, nurturing, supportive and protective endeavours of the Catholic Community, both individually and collectively.
The Diocese will ensure that any allegations of a safeguarding matter are responded to promptly and liaise openly with statutory authorities to support investigations, responding sensitively and compassionately to those in need, and ensuring perpetrators are held to account.
Parish Safeguarding Representatives
Reporting Concerns
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police if you believe there is immediate danger, using 999.
If the incident is not ongoing or the person is not in imminent danger, ring 101 and ask for the Police Force for the area where the concern exists.
If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the Diocesan safeguarding office or religious congregation, or directly to the Police.
If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and also to the Diocesan safeguarding office by Tel: 0191 243 3305 or by email: safeguarding@diocesehn.org.uk.
You can also contact Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) Tel: 0207 901 1920.
If you wish to remain anonymous, concerns can be sent to CrimeStoppers 0800 555111 or online here.
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.
Policy Documents
See Diocesan Website – Safeguarding for more information