Welcome to Safeguarding within the Archdiocese of Southwark.
In line with the Catholic Church of England and Wales, the Archdiocese of Southwark is committed to safeguarding as an integral part of the life and ministry of the Church. We recognise that the welfare of children, young people and Adults at Risk is paramount and that they have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
The Safeguarding team aims to support and assist all members of our community regarding any safeguarding matter raised. We continue to listen and learn from those that have been harmed by abuse, recognising that their insight and lived experiences are crucial to building a robust and compassionate safeguarding function.
We thank all who contribute to the work of safeguarding within the Archdiocese today; Archbishop John, all Clergy and Religious, the Parish Safeguarding Representatives, the Safeguarding Sub-committee who oversee the safeguarding function and the staff of the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service and the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission.
"Every human being has a value and dignity which we as Catholics, recognise as coming from God’s creation in his own image and likeness."
Statement from Archbishop John Wilson
Together with our entire Archdiocese, I am wholeheartedly committed to ensuring that every parish, ministry, and event is a place of safety, welcome, and care for all — especially for the most vulnerable among us. Safeguarding is not merely a matter of policy; it is a vital expression of our shared Christian calling and mission.
As a community of faith, we are guided by the teachings of the Church to protect and stand alongside those who are most in need. This includes the safeguarding of children, young people, and adults at risk from any form of harm, abuse, or neglect. Each person is made in the image and likeness of God, and each deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. No one should feel unsafe in our parishes, communities, or at any event or activity offered by our Archdiocese.
Safeguarding is central to the credibility and witness of the Church. Our ability to share the love of the Lord Jesus Christ with integrity depends on how we protect, value, and support those who come to us in trust. Any act of abuse is a profound betrayal of that trust and causes deep and enduring pain. Such harm has no place in our Church and stands in direct opposition to the Gospel we proclaim.
Our Archdiocese’s safeguarding policies are rooted in more than compliance — they reflect our desire to build a culture where care, vigilance, and mutual responsibility are part of daily life. We all have a role to play in this. Together, we can make our Archdiocese a truly safe and welcoming home for every person. Let us remain united in our commitment to safeguarding and in offering support and solidarity to those who have been harmed.
We acknowledge with sorrow the immense suffering caused by abuse within the life of the Church. To all survivors, we extend our heartfelt apologies. Your pain should never have been part of your experience. The Church must be a place of refuge, never a source of harm, and we recognise with humility and shame the failures that have taken place.
We warmly invite any survivor of abuse — whether within the Church or beyond it — to come forward and contact our diocesan safeguarding team. You will be listened to with respect, responded to with compassion, and supported in seeking healing, justice, and a renewed sense of hope.
With an assurance of prayers
Most Reverend John Wilson
Archbishop of Southwark
