Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a duty that is rooted in the message of Jesus and in the mission of the Church. The Catholic Church in Scotland aspires to the highest standards with regard to the care and protection of children and vulnerable adults, and actively promotes justice for, and provides assistance to, those who have been abused.
We are committed to respecting, protecting and nurturing the dignity of all people. We are determined that the Catholic Church in Scotland will offer a safe place in all Church premises and activities, and with all Church personnel. We are committed to improving the culture of our Safeguarding approach in order to rebuild trust and confidence in the ways in which we ensure that children and vulnerable adults are kept safe. Our Safeguarding approaches, led by each Bishop and Major Superior, and delivered by clergy, Religious, Safeguarding personnel and lay people in every parish community, Religious Institute and Catholic organisation, are designed to protect and heal, to safeguard and nurture all who have contact with Catholic faith communities across Scotland.
In God’s Image (v2): The manual of safeguarding arrangements for the Catholic Church in Scotland
Safeguarding arrangements covering the whole Catholic Church in Scotland are detailed in the policy document ‘In God’s Image v2’ which can be downloaded from the Bishops Conference website using link below.
In God’s Image (version 2) on BCOS website
Safeguarding Arrangements in The Archdiocese
The protection of vulnerable people in our parishes and religious groups is of paramount importance. Our parishes and groups have arrangements in place to create safe environments and are supported by the Safeguarding Office in Edinburgh.
Safeguarding staff for the Archdiocese are located in Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB. Telephone 0131 623 8943.
The Safeguarding page on the Archdiocesan website contains a range of information in relation to safeguarding in the Archdiocese. This can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh – Safeguarding Office
The Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (SCSSA)
The Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (SCSSA) oversees safeguarding arrangements nationally. Contact details and further information can be found by clicking on the link below: