The Archdiocese of Southwark encourages anyone who has been harmed by abuse within the context of the Catholic Church, whether current or non-recent, to make contact with the safeguarding team. 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.

Reporting a concern

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police, using 999 if a child or adult is believed to be in immediate danger.

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.

If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the safeguarding office for your diocese 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 safeguarding office in your diocese. You can contact the Archdiocese of Southwark Safeguarding Office by telephoning 0207 261 1606 or via email at safeguardingoffice@rcaos.org.uk

Commitment to supporting those that have been harmed by abuse.

The Archdiocese of Southwark recognises the impact of abuse on individuals and their families and has readily accepted the findings of IICSA. (follow link for full report https://www.iicsa.org.uk/investigations/investigation-into-failings-by-the-catholic-church) We wish to continue to learn and develop our safeguarding service, by working closely with survivors of abuse and listening to their experiences. The Archdiocese of Southwark understands that some people may not report abuse endured at the time it occurred, especially if the abuse happened whilst they were a child.  We would encourage anyone who feels they have an allegation or a concern from the past in regards to an individual who represented the Catholic Church, to come forward and talk directly to the Safeguarding team. All communications will be managed sensitively and considerately. As set out in the National Guidance, to ensure the on-going safety of children, a disclosure will be reported to statutory or other appropriate agencies. This is to ensure that any perpetrator of abuse, is not still working or having access to children or Adults at Risk. The process will be fully explained to the individual and the safeguarding team will offer support throughout the process.

If you wish to report a concern to the Archdiocese Safeguarding Team or if you wish to speak to a member of the team or make an enquiry, please contact the Safeguarding Team on:
020 7261 1606 or safeguardingoffice@rcaos.org.uk

Please Click here for our Hurt By Abuse leaflet.

Please click here for our leaflet on our support for survivors. 

Please click here for our leaflet on our commitment to survivors. 

Safeguarding

More to explore

Contact details of the Safeguarding Team

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Introduction to Safeguarding

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Safeguarding Sub-committee

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Guidance on Safeguarding within the Archdiocese of Southwark

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Responding to Allegations or Concerns

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Supporting those that have been harmed by abuse

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Creating Safer Environments

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Promoting a Culture of Safeguarding

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Guidance on electronic media use

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Safer Recruitment and DBS

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Reporting a Concern

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Resources and Links

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