Child Safeguarding Statement

 of the Diocese of Raphoe

This statement has been prepared to comply with the requirements of the Children First Act 2015 and is derived from Safeguarding Children Policy and Standards for the Catholic Church in Ireland 2016.

Statement

As a constituent member of the Catholic Church in Ireland, we recognise and uphold the dignity and rights of all children, are committed to ensuring their safety and well-being and will work in partnership with parents/ guardians to do this. We recognise each child as a gift from God, and we value and encourage the participation of children in all activities that enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual and social development.
All Church personnel (including clergy, religious, staff and volunteers) have a responsibility to safeguard children through promoting their welfare, health and development in a safe and caring environment that supports their best interests and prevents abuse.

Nature of service and principles to safeguard children from harm

The DIOCESE OF RAPHOE as a constituent member of the Catholic Church in Ireland exists to promote the teachings of the Catholic Church. This includes the following ministry with children, as defined in Safeguarding Children Policy and Standards for the Catholic Church in Ireland 2016:

List of Ministry with Children

• Baptism,
  
• First Holy Communion “Do this in memory of me”,
  
• Confirmation ~You Shall be my Witness”,
  
• Sacrament of Reconciliation,
  
• Altar Servers,
  
• Children’s Liturgy, Children’s Choir and Readers,
  
• Diocesan Pilgrimages,
  
• John Paul II Awards, St Eunan’s Summer Camp,

Diocesan Pastoral Care

• Rainbows Programme, Child Counselling, Drama Therapy, Art & Crafts.

This is not an exhaustive list and will continue to be updated with the initiation of any new programmes.

Read the full Child Safeguarding Statement of the Diocese of Raphoe

Forms for Reporting Welfare Concerns

Child Protection and Welfare Report Form
Retrospective Abuse Report Form
Appendix D Contact Details for Reporting Allegations of Abuse