Safe Spaces -Supporting survivors of church-related abuse
Please see posters below send from our Diocesan Safeguarding Office.
From our Diocesan Safeguarding Office
The government have launched the “Ask for ANI” codeword scheme in partnership with Boots and independent pharmacies across the country. Those who are victim to or at risk of domestic abuse can ask for ANI and a safe space will be provided, by a trained pharmacist, to allow the individual to access support services and helplines. Where the victim is at risk of harm, the police and other relevant authorities may be contacted.
This scheme is especially useful in helping those who are isolated at home with their abuser and unable to access help.
Please share this with your parish, perhaps suggest to your parish priest to list this as a newsletter item or display a notice in the parish. You may copy and paste the above message.
Please click here for more information on the government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pharmacies-launch-codeword-scheme-to-offer-lifeline-to-domestic-abuse-victims
| Pharmacies launch codeword scheme to offer ‘lifeline’ to domestic abuse victims – GOV.UKFrom today (14 January), victims of domestic abuse will be able to access much needed support from thousands of pharmacies across the UK, backed by the government. The Ask for ANI scheme allows …www.gov.uk |
Reporting Abuse
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police, using 999 if a child or adult is believed to be in immediate danger.
It is the policy of the Catholic Church in England and Wales to report all allegations of abuse to statutory authorities, regardless of whether the abuse occurred recently or in the past, or whether the accused person is living or deceased.
If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the safeguarding office for your diocese or religious congregation, or directly to the Police.
If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and also to the safeguarding office in your diocese. You can contact the Archdiocese of Southwark Safeguarding Office by telephoning 0207 261 1606 or via email at [email protected].