Welcome to the Safeguarding Website for the Diocese of Down and Connor

The practice of safeguarding within the diocese refers to the wide range of services, plans and activities that are put in place to protect both children and adults who may be vulnerable to abuse and neglect from being exploited or harmed.

Safeguarding within our Church community is about making our Church a safe, welcoming and enriching place for children, young people and adults and those who may be at risk of harm. Although the Safeguarding Office may take a lead role in outlining the key aspects of what needs to be in place to protect children and adults from harm, safeguarding is very much a shared community responsibility in which each and every one of us has a part to play, whether that is reporting a concern about a child or adult or by simply volunteering in your parish in any of our safeguarding activities. Read more

Latest News & Events

Online Safety Mini Webinars for Parents and Carers

A new series of short online safety mini webinars is now available on the SBNI Online Safety Hub for families, and can also be used by staff and volunteers working with children and young people.

New Guidance for Settings: Protecting Children’s Images from AI Manipulation

Across education settings, youth services and wider organisations, images play an important role in communication and engagement;

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)

Child criminal exploitation is a form of child abuse that can cause serious and lasting harm to children and young people. It is often hidden, misunderstood, or misidentified, particularly where children and young people appear to be involved in criminal activity.