The Parish of St Matthews is committed to following the Safeguarding policies and procedures as set out in the document ‘In Gods Image’ signed by each Bishop in March 2018.
By law, anyone who works with children or adults at risk is obliged to undertake a Disclosure check. In our Parish this process is carried out through the Safeguarding team who have been trained and approved by the Diocese and who support Father Michael in this task.
As a Parish we appreciate the contributions of all our volunteers whether spiritual or practical. All support is very welcome and plays a valuable contribution to the vibrant community within our Parish.
Examples of roles which require a Disclosure check include but is not limited to
Children’s Liturgy
Eucharistic ministry to the Sick or Housebound
Youth Leader
In addition to a Disclosure Check, The Bishops‘ Conference of Scotland has a further requirement that anyone who offers their services as a volunteer with vulnerable groups must complete an application form, self-declaration form and provide two character references.
These are completed at the same time as the Disclosure Check and submitted to Father Michael or Parish Safeguarding Officer.
All volunteers MUST attend presentation sessions to learn about "Awareness and Safety in our Catholic Communities". No one can take up a position until this training session has taken place. Volunteers are advised of refresher sessions as appropriate.
These steps are taken to ensure that all possible steps are taken to ensure that the children, young people and adults at risk are as safe as they can be whilst in our care.
If you are thinking of volunteering within the Parish of St Matthews please see this information as reassurance and not a barrier.
If you have any questions please contact the Parish Safeguarding team
Maria Thomson – 07947148242
Susan Kaminski - 0131 663 7339
Father Michael – 0131 440 2150
Further information is available from
https://archedinburgh.org/administration/#safeguarding
If someone expresses concern or makes an allegation to you about abuse in the Church, you MUST treat it seriously and follow the guidelines set out I the leaflet below
https://archedinburgh.org/wp-content/uploads/Safeguarding-Leaflet.pdf