Then people brought little children to him, for him to lay hands on them and pray. The disciples scolded them, but Jesus said, “Let the little children alone, and do not stop them from coming to me; for it is such as these that the Kingdom of heaven belongs.” Then he laid his hands on them and went on his way. (Matt 19:13-15)

The Archdiocese of Armagh recognises and upholds the dignity and rights of all children and is committed to ensuring their safety and well-being. The Archdiocese values and encourages the participation of children in all parish liturgies and in all activities that enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual and social development.

Above all the Archdiocese recognises the need to protect children, especially those in their care, and aims to do this in a way that promotes their human dignity, integrity and worth as children of God.

The Archdiocese of Armagh recognises that while safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility, all involved in working with young people have a special duty of care towards them. The Archdiocese has committed itself to engaging in a process towards putting procedures in place through which this care is put into effect.

 

The terms child and children as used throughout this document refer to those under 18 years of age.