We are all aware that the Catholic Church has been in the spotlight in the last fifteen years or so, over its handling of child abuse cases world wide. What is perhaps less well-known is that in England and Wales in the same period, much time and energy has been spent in striving to create a Church where all are safe from harm and abuse, and where everyone is encouraged to enjoy the fullness of life in Jesus Christ through the protective endeavours of the whole Catholic community. 

In Nottingham Diocese, every parish has at least one safeguarding representative. In our parish Nadine Baxendale is our representative. Her role is to try to prevent harm and abuse from occurring in the parish. She does this by ensuring that anyone who has a ministry with children, young people or vulnerable adults goes through a safe recruitment process and works safely in their ministry.  So for example there are at least two adult helpers with every ministry involving children or young people, and activities take place in an open environment. Those who have a ministry with vulnerable adults are also encouraged to minister safely, though there is no expectation that Extraordinary ministers work in pairs