Spotlight on creating safe environments for all
By Wendy Shaw
The importance of making safeguarding an integral part of the culture of the Archdiocese of Hobart has been emphasised in a series of events over the past month.
Hundreds of volunteers as well as priests, parish secretaries and safeguarding officers recently attended training sessions in the north and north west of the state.
Around 170 volunteers from the parishes of Launceston, George Town, West Tamar, Kings Meadows, and Meander Valley and the Carmelite Monastery attended training sessions held in Launceston. A further 80 volunteers attended sessions held in Burnie and Devonport.
The sessions took place in the lead-up to Safeguarding Sunday, formerly Child Protection Sunday, which the Catholic Church in Australia marks on the second Sunday of September each year.
The training emphasises that everyone has a part to play in protecting children, young people and adults at risk and that it is essential that lay, clergy and religious work together to foster an environment within parishes that minimises risk of harm.
This year the Safe Communities Team have delivered 22 face-to-face training sessions around the state this year with more than 700 volunteers attending training so far.
The team is on track to deliver training to all parishes by the end of 2024, and is also developing a recorded version for those unable to attend in person. There will be further sessions for new volunteers next year.
The Archdiocese’s Director of Professional Standards and Safe Communities Office, Mrs Jacqueline Highfield, said the vital contribution of volunteers to the life and activities of parishes is “respected and very much valued”.
“Being able to have open conversations about the importance of safeguarding initiatives, why we need screening processes such as National Police Checks and Registration to Work With Vulnerable People and how we can work together to meet our obligations under the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards, is an important part of ensuring that we create safe environments for some of the most vulnerable members of our community including children, young people and adults at risk” she said.
Visiting parishes and meeting people where they live and volunteer has been energising for the hardworking Safe Communities Team consisting of Jacqueline, Andrea Probert and Di Kelly, who are excited about the future of safeguarding across the Archdiocese.
Meanwhile, National Child Protection Week was observed from 1 to 7 September, highlighting the collective responsibility of safeguarding the dignity and innocence of every child.
The Archdiocese’s Chair of Safe Communities, Fr Shammi Perera, said it is important to create safe spaces where children feel, and are, seen, heard, and valued.
“In every family, parish, and community the words we share have the potential to build trust, impart wisdom, and offer comfort” he said in a special message marking the week.
“As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love and care for the most vulnerable among us.
“Let us be vigilant in our conversations, ensuring they are marked by attentiveness, respect, and compassion.
“Whether we are discussing the importance of boundaries, sharing our faith, or simply listening to a child’s joys and fears, each interaction contributes to their sense of security and well-being…
“This week, and every week, let us commit to conversations that matter – conversations that not only protect our children but also affirm their worth as beloved children of God.
“May Our Lady, the Mother of all, guide us in our efforts to create a world where every child is safe, cherished, and able to grow in the light of Christ’s love.”