Child Protection and Safeguarding

Safeguarding Commitment for Children, Youth and Vulnerable Adults

 The Alstonville-Wardell Catholic Church is committed to the following principles:

  • At all times the safety, well-being and protection from any form of harm or abuse of children, youth and vulnerable adults are paramount.
  • The Parish Priest and all employees and volunteers have a duty of care to support and protect children, youth and vulnerable adults.
  • Our recruitment, employment and supervision processes are to be of high quality in order to select and engage suitable people to work with children, youth and vulnerable adults.
  • Education and training in recognising abuse, responding to a disclosure and reporting an allegation is provided for all engaged in working with children, youth and vulnerable adults, either directly or indirectly.
  • If there is suspicion that a child, youth and vulnerable adult is subject to some form of harm or abuse there will be immediate intervention ensuring the person is protected and supported.
  • A prompt compassionate and just response is made on receiving any complaint or notification of harm or abuse (current or historic).
  • Care will be offered to the family of the child or person who may have suffered harm.
  • Persons involved in an allegation of abuse will be treated with justice and compassion and have appropriate confidentiality maintained.
  • We welcome feedback in regard to Child Safety.  Please do not hesitate to contact the parish office should you have any queries.

 

Reporting Sexual / Physical Abuse

If you wish to make a complaint about sexual or physical abuse by a representative of the Catholic Church please call 1300 36 9977.  Further information can be obtained from the NSW Office of Professional Standards on 02 9287 1542.

Fr. Max Gow

To view the Diocese of Lismore – Child Protection Policy click here Child Protection Policy