Safeguarding Children, Young People, and Adults at Risk

As a parish family, we are called to create a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. Safeguarding is not only about policies and procedures – it is about living out Christ’s love by ensuring that children, young people, and adults who may be vulnerable are protected and cared for.

Our Parish Safeguarding Representatives are here to help us all keep safeguarding at the heart of our parish life. They are available if you ever have concerns or simply wish to know more about how we can make our parish a safe and welcoming home for all.


Parish Safeguarding Contact

Charlotte Town: norwooduppersg2@safeguardrcaos.org.uk

If You Are Worried About Someone’s Safety

If you are ever concerned about the welfare of a child or an adult at risk, please do not hesitate to take action:

  • If there is immediate danger, call the police straight away on 999.

  • The Catholic Church in England and Wales requires that all allegations of abuse are reported to statutory authorities, no matter how long ago the incident took place, or whether the person involved is alive or has passed away.

For clergy, staff, and volunteers: concerns must be referred to the safeguarding office for the diocese or congregation, or directly to the police.

For parishioners and visitors: please contact the police and also inform the Archdiocese of Southwark Safeguarding Office.

 0207 261 1606 / safeguardingoffice@rcaos.org.uk


Volunteers and Parish Roles

Those who volunteer with children, young people, or vulnerable adults in our parish bring wonderful gifts of service and care. To ensure a safe environment, all volunteers are required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before beginning their ministry. Our Parish Safeguarding Team will help guide new volunteers through this process. In addition, volunteers are asked to complete a short online safeguarding training module.

But safeguarding is not just for volunteers or leaders – it is the shared responsibility of our whole parish community. Together, by being attentive, kind, and ready to speak up if we notice something that does not feel right, we can make our parish a truly safe and welcoming place for all.

For further resources and training:


Safe Spaces – Support for Survivors

We recognise with sorrow that some people have suffered harm in a church setting. Safe Spaces is a free and independent service offering confidential emotional support and advocacy for anyone who has experienced abuse within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, the Church of England, or the Church in Wales.

No matter when the abuse happened, Safe Spaces offers a listening ear and compassionate support.

 Helpline: 0300 303 1056

 Website: safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk

 Opening hours:

  • Monday–Friday: 9am–9pm

  • Saturday: 9am–1pm

  • Sunday: 1pm–5pm

A Prayer for Safeguarding

Loving Father,

you sent your Son to bring life, hope, and healing to all your children.

Bless our parish with wisdom and courage,

that we may protect the most vulnerable,

speak out against injustice,

and always reflect your care in our words and actions.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.