Safeguarding Policy Statement of the Diocese of Down and Connor

The Diocese of Down and Connor pledges to safeguard children and young people and adults from harm and to support them in their development as valued and integral members of the Catholic Church in Ireland.

The Diocese and its parishes and communities strive to be places of welcome, where each person is respected and loved and where we support and protect each other. We will be sensitive to and supportive of children and young people and those adults in need of protection or support because of illness or disability or who may be in need because of current or past life experiences.

In all pastoral ministry within the Diocese the protection of children and adults at risk is paramount. Consistent with Gospel values and compliant with civil and criminal law, those who minister will do so with dignity and integrity, honouring their calling to ensure that children and young people and all the lay faithful are welcomed, cherished and protected following the example set by Jesus.

The Safeguarding Children Policy and Adult Safeguarding Policy will be complied with by all priests, deacons, members of religious congregations, associations of the faithful and all lay representatives who act on behalf of the Diocese, including the Diocesan Board of Trustees.

Our mission is to respond to the call of the Christ to live the Gospel of love by creating communities throughout the Diocese where everyone is welcome, respected and given the opportunity to reach their potential as a child of God.