Policy Statement by the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland

“The Catholic Church in Scotland is concerned with the lives, safety, wholeness and well being of each individual person within God’s purpose for everyone. It seeks to safeguard the welfare of children and young people who are involved in whatever capacity with the Church and its organisations. As a Church community, we accept that it is the responsibility of all of us, ordained, professed, paid and voluntary members to work together to prevent the physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect of children, young people and vulnerable adults.”

“Awareness & Safety in Our Catholic Communities” is the document issued by the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland stating the policies and procedures for the Catholic Church in relation to the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults within our Catholic Communities.

Each parish throughout the Diocese is asked to display this statement, in poster form, in a prominent location within their church and parish hall.

Along with the poster there are manuals for the Parish Priest, Parish Co-ordinator and leaders of parish groups, which detail the various policies and procedures that the Church has put in to place.

There is a Welcome Guide for each volunteer that supports the manual as well as   a “Summary of Good Practice” card that outlines concisely what paid and voluntary workers must and must not do when working with children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Please contact the Diocesan Advisor if you require any further information.