Parish Statement of Commitment to the Safety of Children, Young People and Adults at Risk

1.We are committed to a safe and nurturing culture for all children, young people and adults at risk in our Church.

Star of the Sea Parish holds the care, safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk as central and fundamental responsibilities of the Church. This commitment is drawn from and inherent in the teaching and mission of Jesus Christ, with love, justice and the sanctity of each human person at the heart of the Gospel.

2. We will do all we can to ensure that our children, young people and adults at risk are safe, happy and empowered.

Star of the Sea Parish has a universal expectation for the protection of children, young people and adults at risk. It is resolutely committed to ensuring that all those engaged in the Church promote the inherent dignity of children, young people and adults at risk and their fundamental right to be respected and nurtured in a safe environment.

The Catholic Church has a moral, legal and mission-driven responsibility to create nurturing environments where children, young people and adults at risk are respected, their voices are heard and where they are safe and feel safe.

3. We have zero tolerance of child abuse and all allegations and safety concerns will be treated seriously and reported in line with our legal obligations, our moral obligations and our Church policies.

Creating child-safe environments is a dynamic process that involves the active participation of and is the responsibility of our parish, families and communities. It is marked by collaboration, vigilance and proactive approaches across policies, procedures, and practices.

4. We are committed to preventing child abuse and identifying risks early and working to remove them. 

Every person involved in the Catholic Church has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role he/she plays individually and collectively to ensure that the wellbeing and safety of all children and young people is at the forefront of all they do and every decision they make.