21st October 2020

Dear Clergy, Religious, Parish Safeguarding Officers and Parish Offices

Second Anniversary of National Apology

On 22 Oct 2018, the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, delivered the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse. The National Apology acknowledged and apologised for the appalling abuse endured by vulnerable children, including current generations, by the very people who were supposed to care for them. 

On the Second Anniversary of the National Apology, I wish to recommit our efforts in the Diocese of Sale to the work of creating a culture of safety and care for all.

We are doing this through a number of initiatives including rolling out both face to face training and an online safeguarding module. I urge you to encourage as many church volunteers to undertake this training, particularly the online module which is freely available to all.

Given the current restrictions due to the pandemic in Victoria, we recognise that some parish ministry is being conducted online. It is important that those who conduct this understand the safeguarding guidelines and attend preparatory sessions to ensure that they are skilled to be able to safeguard all those who attend. We have a focus on safe practices including policies and guidelines.

Whist this anniversary is an important occasion to reflect on the magnitude of harm perpetrated against victims and survivors in Catholic Church settings, it is also a time to recommit to the vital cultural change and safeguarding work that needs to be done to create a safe Church for all.

If you have any queries in the area of safeguarding or any related matters, please contact Dr Angela Lecomber, the Diocesan Professional Standards Officer. Email: Angelal@sale.catholic.org.au

Yours sincerely in Christ

Rev Fr Peter Slater

Diocesan Administrator