The Diocese of Parramatta offers its unreserved and deepest apologies to survivors of abuse and their families for the hurt and suffering this abuse has caused throughout their lives. We are absolutely committed to ensuring no child or other person in our care is harmed again.
The Diocese acknowledges our past failings have led to irreversible harm being inflicted upon children. While we seek to repair this fundamental breach of trust that was placed in us, we understand that trust is, for some people, perhaps broken forever. Our past failings cannot be undone, however, we remain steadfast in our future commitments to ensure our current child protection processes and procedures offer a safeguard from predatory behaviour.
In all our works, ministries and activities, we respond to the call of the Gospel to protect those who are vulnerable by fostering culture, education systems, processes and environments where the safety and wellbeing of children and vulnerable people is paramount.
We are committed to ensuring all children and adults are safe, respected, protected and supported whilst in our care.
Statement of Commitment to Safeguarding from the Bishop of Parramatta
Dear Friends,
The Diocese of Parramatta is committed to being a community of safeguarding that actively promotes the dignity and rights of children and of all persons, particularly those who may be vulnerable.
We have zero tolerance to abuse of any form. We are committed to ensuring that all children and vulnerable adults under our care are safe, protected and enabled to flourish.
We acknowledge the lifelong trauma of abuse victims, survivors and their families, the failure of churches in Australia to protect, believe and respond to children and vulnerable adults, and the consequent breaches of community trust.
The Diocese is committed to being a community of safeguarding. This means we have zero tolerance of abuse in any form. As part of this, our job is to make sure everyone who works or acts for the Church understands and recognises the Standards as an integral part of their understanding of what it means to be engaged in the life of the Church.
Prevention, Healing and Support Service
Our Prevention, Healing and Support unit encourages, assists and supports survivors and family members of survivors through a person-centred, trauma-informed approach.
The service has been established to aid in the healing process from the harm that was caused by a person or persons working for the Church in the Diocese of Parramatta.
We offer a therapeutic case management service for people who have been affected by childhood sexual abuse or any other abuse and will assist you with referrals to supportive agencies that may support you in your healing.
To speak to someone about this service, please contact (02) 8838 3419 or complete the form below
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