“Protecting the right to live safely, free from abuse and neglect, involves collaborative efforts by individuals and organisations to prevent and address both the risks and occurrences of abuse or neglect. It also includes promoting wellbeing, considering views, wishes, feelings, and beliefs in any decisions or actions taken.”
The Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross of Liege is dedicated to making safeguarding a central element of Church life and ministry. With the guidance and compliance of the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency's policies and procedures for England and Wales, we work towards fostering a safeguarding culture where everyone is protected from harm and abuse.
This commitment ensures that each individual can experience the fullness of life in Jesus Christ, supported by the Catholic Community’s prayerful, nurturing, and protective efforts, both individually and collectively.
The Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross of Liege will address any safeguarding allegations promptly, working openly and transparently. We are committed to responding to those in need with sensitivity and compassion while ensuring that those responsible for harm are held accountable.
What to Do if You Suspect a Vulnerable Person is at Risk or Experiencing Abuse
Avoid discussing your concerns with the person you believe to be responsible for the abuse. If you witness abuse or receive an allegation where a child is in immediate danger, contact the statutory authorities (Police/Social Services) immediately and inform the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). When there is no immediate danger, report the concern directly to the DSL, who will inform the relevant authorities.
If you suspect someone is being groomed, discuss this with the Safeguarding Lead to determine the appropriate actions.
England
Safeguarding Trustee - Sr. Kathleen O’Reilly 0203 988 8420
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) - Michelle Pulman 07946 800903
Ireland
Designated Liaison Person (DLP)
Sr. Anne Kelly - 01 288 7401
Sr. Kathleen McKenna - 01 288 7315
Safeguarding Information
Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) were set up as a new professional standards body with regulatory powers.
Every church body has committed to a common standards-based approach, and to being transparent and accountable in their fulfilment of it.
https://catholicsafeguarding.org.uk/
The Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) is an independent team of safeguarding professionals offering safeguarding services to the Religious of the Catholic Church in England and Wales.
https://religioussafeguarding.org/
The National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland provides advice, services and assistance in the furtherance of the development of the safeguarding of children within the Roman Catholic Church on the island of Ireland and to monitor compliance with legislation, policy and best practice.
Victims & Survivors
Safe Spaces, which launched in September 2020, is an independent advocacy and support service for victims and survivors of church-related abuse in the Catholic Church of England, Ireland &Wales.
It is free and independent, providing a confidential, personal, and safe space.
Safe Spaces Helpline: 0300 303 1056
Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 21:00
Saturdays: 09:00 - 13:00
Sundays: 13:00 - 17:00
