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.
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.
All safeguarding concerns and allegations MUST be reported to the Diocesan Safeguarding team – either via the Parish Safeguarding Representatives (contact details below) or our Parish Priest.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk and believe that they may be in immediate danger, you must call the police on 999.
Our Parish Safeguarding reps are Catherine Gurney and Henry Bodunrin.
They can be contacted on 07877 124397 or gravesendsg1@safeguardrcaos.org.uk.
The Diocesan Safeguarding team can be contacted on 020 7261 1606 or safeguardingoffice@rcaos.org.uk
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.
“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.”