Catholic Social Services Australia, Catholic Health Australia, the National Catholic Education Commission, Catholic Employment Relations and Caritas Australia are among those lending their support to National Child Protection Week (September 4-10) in a very tangible way.
The National Catholic Safeguarding Standards, which incorporate the National Child Safe Principles, have been endorsed for all Catholic organisations that are engaged with children and young people. They underpin the Church’s commitment to working towards a common goal of every child, in every community being safe, cared for, having their needs met and being afforded the chance to realise their potential.
Chair of Australian Catholic Safeguarding Limited, Michael Lavarch, has invited Catholic organisations to sign up to show their commitment to the NCSS though the ACSL website and download the NCSS commitment badge for use on their websites and social media.
“ACSL acknowledges the lifelong harm and trauma that is experienced by children who are subjected to neglect, violence and abuse. We are committed though the social mission of the Church, to help create communities that support families and children,” Professor Lavarch said.
ACSL chief executive Dr Ursula Stephens encouraged “all Catholic organisations to demonstrate their commitment to National Child Protection Week and support our collective efforts to ensure every community across Australia has strong foundations for families and children”.
Catholic agencies commit to giving every child a ‘fair go’, CathNews