Parish Safeguarding
If a Child (anyone under the age of 18) or Adult at Risk is in immediate danger you must contact the Police on 999. If you have other concerns and there is no immediate danger, please contact the Safeguarding Team.
Our Parish Safeguarding Representative is Maggie McCarthy
The Diocesan Safeguarding Team can also be contacted on 0121 230 6240 or at safeguarding@rcaob.org.uk if you have any concern.
Maggie McCarthy email: sg.stjoseph.whitnash@rcaob.org.uk
Archdiocese Safeguarding
The Archdiocese of Birmingham has a zero-tolerance approach to all abuse.
All Church activity should provide a safe environment which promotes and supports the wellbeing of everyone and protects them from harm.
The Catholic Church in England and Wales has a single approach to Safeguarding. The Archdiocese of Birmingham follows the National Safeguarding policy provided by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency; safeguarding in the Archdiocese is overseen by the Safeguarding Trustee Sub-committee.
Safe Spaces
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse in relation to the Church of England, the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church of England and Wales. This could be abuse by someone who holds any role at the church or is linked to participating in a church-led activity or group.
If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless you or someone else is in immediate danger.
The Safe Spaces team is available through its helpline and live chat service between Monday-Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm.
Tel: 0300 303 1056
Email: safespaces@firstlight.org.uk
Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk