Standard 1: Written Policy on keeping children safe
What is the Standard?
All Church organisations that work directly or indirectly with people under the age of 18 have a written policy on keeping children safe. This is generally known as a child protection policy.
The policy communicates the principle derived from the Gospel that the Church is committed to keeping children safe. It makes clear to everyone that children must be protected, helps to create a safe and positive environment for children and shows that the Church is taking its duty of care seriously.
Ways of providing evidence
The following documents can be used to provide evidence that the Standard has been met:
- a copy of the policy
- minutes of the meeting where the policy was signed/ agreed by the relevant Bishop or Religious Superior or other appropriate Church authority at diocesan or congregational level
- written evidence of how abuse is dealt with in the Church organisation and a timetable for review
Download
Standards and Guidance Document (Full)
Criteria
1.1 The Church organisation has a child protection policy that is written in a clear and easily understandable way.
1.2 The policy is approved and signed by the relevant leadership body of the Church organisation (e.g. the Bishop of the diocese or provincial of a religious congregation).
1.3 The policy states that all Church personnel are required to comply with it.
1.4 The policy is reviewed at regular intervals no more than three years apart and is adapted whenever there are significant changes in the organisation or legislation.
1.5 The policy addresses child protection in the different aspects of Church work e.g. within a church building, community work, pilgrimages, trips and holidays.
1.6 The policy states how those individuals who pose a risk to children are managed.
1.7 The policy clearly describes the Church’s understanding and definitions of abuse.
1.8 The policy states that all current child protection concerns must be fully reported to the civil authorities without delay.
1.9 The Policy should be created at diocese or congregational level. If a separate policy document at parish or other level is necessary this should be consistent with the diocesan or congregational policy and approved by the relevant diocesan or congregational authority before distribution.