Safeguarding

Diocese of Ossory

As a constitute member of the Catholic Church in Ireland, we recognise and uphold the dignity and rights of all children, are committed to ensuring their safety and well-being and will work in partnership with parents/guardians to do this. We recognise each child is a gift from God, and we value and encourage the participation of children in all activities that enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual and social development. All Church personnel (including clergy, religious, staff and volunteers) have a responsibility to safeguard children through promoting their welfare, health and development in a safe and caring environment that supports their best interests and prevents abuse. The Diocese of Ossory is also committed to providing a safe environment for adults who may be vulnerable.

National Safeguarding Policy Document

The National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland (NSBCCCI) published a revised Safeguarding Children Policy in 2016. This revised set of standards is designed to ensure up-to-date ‘best practice’ in all aspects of Child Safeguarding and is the policy adhered to by all Church Personnel in the Diocese of Ossory and can be downloaded here.

Child Safeguarding Statement for the Diocese of Ossory

This statement has been prepared to comply with the requirements of the Children First Act 2015 and is derived from safeguarding Children Policy and Standards for the Catholic Church in Ireland 2016 and can be downloaded here.

Seven Safeguarding Standards

For the effective implementation of the Seven Safeguarding Standards a supporting Guidance Manual has also been produced

If you have a child safeguarding concern or wish to raise a matter from the past you may contact

Mr Cathal Cullen, Deputy Designated Person. Tel:  087 100 0232 or email: dlp@ossory.ie

Ms Rose Brophy, Deputy Designated Liaison Person. Tel:  087 331 4330 or email: dlp@ossory.ie

Civil Authorities 

• Kilkenny area –  052 617 7302
• Laois, Offaly – 090 648 3106
• Garda Freephone Confidential Helpline: 1800 555 222

Other Support Services

• TUSLA (Child & Family Agency): Contact a Social Worker
• Towards Healing  is a counselling and support service for survivors of institutional, Clerical and Religious abuse, funded by the Catholic Church.
• Towards  Peace offers spiritual support to survivors of abuse by Church personnel. The service is for those whose faith has been damaged by abuse and who wish to continue their search for meaning and for God
• One in Four
• ISPCC
• Bernardos
• Samaritans
• Children at Risk in Ireland (CARI)

Safeguarding Newsletter

A newsletter is prepared for volunteers, parish staff and parents.

• Recently published newsletters