All members of the Parish community, especially children and young people, are entitled to participate in the Parish activities. It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that while they do so, they are treated with care and respect and they are kept safe from every kind of abuse and harm.

We have a large number of older people who receive Holy Communion in their own homes or sheltered housing.  The Catholic Church takes very seriously this responsibility through the National Catholic Safeguarding Commission.  The Diocese has its own  Southwark Safeguarding Commission, and the parish has a Parish Safeguarding Committee.  It is the responsibility of these to implement good practice and policy and to ensure that:

• Procedures are in place to ascertain the suitability of those who volunteer to offer themselves for any ministry in the church involving children, young people or vulnerable adults.

• Adequate training in matters relating to the procedures, protection, vulnerability and safety are made available.

• Guidelines on what to do in cases where allegations or disclosures of vulnerability or abuse have been made.

• Information is provided for children, young people and vulnerable adults of whom can be contacted if there are concerns.

All parish members are expected to provide an atmosphere in which children, young people and vulnerable adults feel welcomed, affirmed and safe.  They must also be aware of and accept the responsibility we all share for the safety and welfare of children, young people and vulnerable older people.