The Archdiocese of Armagh has put in place a robust Safeguarding Strategy to ensure that all children, young people and vulnerable adults are kept safe within the Church. A key element of this strategy is the training and development of clergy and targeted parishioners and employees to ensure that all those working within the Church are aware of their responsibility when it comes to the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
In 2010 an all Ireland standardised Safeguarding Training Programme was developed by the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland (NBSCCCI). This has been delivered throughout the Archdiocese by Eleanor Kelly, the Diocesan Training Co-ordinator, with a small team of volunteers. It is mandatory that all clergy, volunteers and those engaged in any ministry within the Church will attend these sessions.
The NBSCCCI was set up in 2005 and legally constituted for the Safeguarding of children and young people, so this training is solely focus on children. The 5 Northern Dioceses (Armagh, Clogher, Derry, Dromore & Kilmore) came together to examine and put in place a training element focusing on Safeguarding Adults.
Under the auspices of the 5 Northern Bishops, Volunteer Now was commissioned to design this programme “Keeping Adults Safe” (KAS), which is being rolled out throughout the 5 Dioceses. This means the all Church Personnel: clergy, those in lay ministries and employees who work directly with children, young people and/or adults have access to relevant training and information.
All Parishes will continue to be contacted to avail of this training and we thank, most sincerely, all Parish Priests/Administrators and Parish Safeguarding Representatives who ensure that this key element of the Safeguarding Strategy is effective.
As well as the National Board training, specialised training will be offered, based on a needs assessment, to all who are working within the Safeguarding area. The Archdiocese works closely with other agencies and personnel who can contribute to the effective development of the Safeguarding Strategy. Safeguarding personnel will continue to work closely with the National Board and other safeguarding networks.
Training Volunteers needed:
There are 61 parishes that require training in this Archdiocese and the contribution of our Training Volunteers has been invaluable. If you would like to help in the Safeguarding of Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults, please get in contact. Relevant training and on-going support will be provided.
Due to the Corona Virus the Safeguarding Office is closed but you can contact Eleanor Kelly using the details below to express your interest or to ask any questions.
Eleanor Kelly
Diocesan Training Co-ordinator & D.L.P.
Tel: 075 8432 3138 (NI) 0044 75 8432 3138 (ROI)
E-mail: [email protected]
APRIL 2020
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