Safeguarding

Policy for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

This page contains a summary of the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service Child Protection Policy. To see the full live policy click here. 

St Teresa’s Parish, Ashford is committed to the child protection policies of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, to protect children and young people from neglect, physical, emotional and sexual abuse and to promote a safe environment for them.

The parish has a growing children’s and young peoples ministry. We take seriously our responsibility to protect and safeguard the welfare of children and young people entrusted to the church’s care. Through the work of the parish child protection team, the parish works to ensure the safety of children and young people in our community.

Information for Children and Young People

Every child or young person who comes to St Teresa’s Church is important.
All adults must make sure that:-

• You are treated well and with respect
• You are listened to
• You are safe

CONTACT

If you are unhappy, muddled, confused, worried, hurt or frightened about anything that happens at St Teresas’, where you live or anywhere else you go we want to help. The people you can tell are:

• Someone in your family or where you live.
• A leader who you feel listens to you in the church.
• Julian Gizzi, Parish Safeguarding Representative (jgizzi@kcsp.org.uk)
• Diocesan Safeguarding Officer:
  Mary-Jane Crowley: Tel: 02072611606
  Email: maryjanecrowley@rcaos.org.uk
• Somebody at school.
• Childline: 0800 1111
• NSPCC number: 0808 8005000

Code of Conduct for Adults Involved in Contact with Children and Young People

You must:-

• Operate within the Church’s principles and guidance and any particular procedures of the Diocese, Religious Congregation, Parish or Club.
• Treat all children equally and with respect.
• Engage and interact appropriately with children and young people.
• Challenge unacceptable behaviour and provide an example of good conduct you wish others to follow- an environment, which allows bullying, inappropriate shouting, or any form of discrimination is unacceptable.
• Respect a child or young persons right to personal privacy.
• Recognise that particular care is required in moments when you are discussing sensitive issues with children and young people e.g. maintain appropriate boundaries.
• Avoid situations that compromise your relationship with children and young people, and are unacceptable in a position of trust. This rule should apply to all such behaviours including those, which would not constitute an illegal act.

You must not:-

• Discuss topics or use vocabulary with children and young people, which could not be used comfortably in the presence of parents or another adult.
• Arrange an overnight trip with a child or young person without ensuring that another approved person will be present.
• Take a chance when common sense suggests a more prudent approach.
• Physically, emotionally or sexually abuse or exploit any child.