Brentwood
Diocese
Safeguarding
Our Commitment to Safety and Dignity
We are unwavering in our commitment to making the Church a place of safety, dignity, and respect for all. Safeguarding is not just a policy—it is a moral imperative rooted in the Gospel. We actively foster environments where children, young people, and vulnerable adults are protected, listened to, and valued. Abuse has no place in the life of the Church, and we will take every necessary action to prevent it, respond swiftly to concerns, and support all those who have been harmed. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and compassion.
Rooted in Christ, Guided by Law: Our safeguarding work is inspired by the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. We follow the Diocese of Brentwood's safeguarding policies, which are aligned with: Statutory guidelines​ and National safeguarding protocols of the Catholic Church in England and Wales
​​
You Are Not Alone​
We are here to listen, to support, and to act.
If you have experienced abuse within the Catholic Church, whether recently or in the past, your voice matters. We understand that coming forward can be incredibly difficult — and we are committed to ensuring that you are met with dignity, compassion, and respect.
​
Our process begins with listening. When you contact us, you will be responded to by someone trained to support victims and survivors. We will work at your pace, and we will never pressure you to share more than you are comfortable with.
​
Where appropriate, we will help you access support services and explain the options available to you — including making a formal complaint or referral to statutory agencies. If you wish, we can also help you engage with Church leadership or participate in pastoral processes for healing and redress.
Your safety and wellbeing are our priority.
National Safeguarding Standards
The Catholic Church in England and Wales has adopted national safeguarding standards to protect children and vulnerable adults. These standards reflect a unified commitment to accountability, cultural change, and best practice across the Church. Find out how the CSSA audit process ensures compliance and what the eight standards require.
Safeguarding Advisory Panel
The Safeguarding Advisory Panel provides expert, independent advice to help ensure the highest standards of safeguarding across the Church. It supports accountability, promotes best practice, and advises on complex cases, helping Church leaders uphold their responsibilities in protecting children and vulnerable adults.
Michael, Assistant Safeguarding Co-Ordinator
Mick brings significant expertise to the team, having served for 13 years as Safeguarding Coordinator in a neighbouring diocese. His background includes a distinguished career as a police officer, with experience in a range of departments, notably within a child abuse investigation team. This breadth of experience underpins his contribution to safeguarding across the diocese.
Antoinette, Senior DBS Administrator
Antoinette has been part of the Safeguarding team for many years and is also an active member of her parish, serving in a variety of roles. As Senior DBS Administrator, she has played a key role in introducing and developing a number of improvements to our safeguarding administration
Simon, Safeguarding Co-Ordinator
Simon has over 20 years’ experience as Diocesan Safeguarding Coordinator, supporting clergy and parishes with expert advice and a calm, trusted approach to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. A registered Social Worker, Simon previously worked in Local Authority child protection, family support, and initial investigation teams before taking up his role as Safeguarding Coordinator for the Diocese of Brentwood, which he has held for over two decades.
Hannah, Safeguarding Assistant
Hannah has joined the team as a Safeguarding DBS Administrator and also serves as the Parish Safeguarding Representative in her parish. She brings with her valuable experience and knowledge from her parish role, strengthening the support we offer across the diocese.