If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police if a child or adult is believed to be in immediate danger.

It is the policy of the Catholic Church in Scotland to report all allegations of abuse to the 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 Scotland, you must refer allegations directly to the Safeguarding office for your Diocese or Religious Congregation.

If you are a member of the public, you should refer allegations directly to the Police and also to the Safeguarding office in your Diocese (contact details below)

On 19th March 2018 the Bishops of Scotland unanimously committed to the new Safeguarding standards set out in the policy document IN GOD'S IMAGE.  It was published as an "Instruction on Safeguarding for implementation in all Catholic canonical jurisdictions in Scotland and by all other groups and organisations in Scotland subject to a legitimate canonical authority of the Catholic Church."   It was originally published “ad experimentum” for a period of three years to give time for its contents to be reviewed in the light of experience and evolving guidance.  

IN GOD'S IMAGE version 2 (IGIv2) has emerged from a 9-month period of consultation, reflection and discussion among many who have direct experience and expertise in the front line of the Church’s safeguarding practice. Significantly, this experience includes responding to the hurt and anguish of those who have suffered abuse at the hands of clergy, religious and others working within the Catholic Church.    

IGIv2 makes reference to key statements made by Pope Francis and to instructions and norms published by the Holy See in recent years. It also takes into account evolving changes to the PVG scheme in Scotland. The work of the Independent Review Group and recommendations from independent audits of safeguarding in Scottish dioceses have also had a bearing on this revised version.  The final text of IGIv2 was ratified unanimously by the Bishops of Scotland at an online meeting held on Tuesday 6th July 2021.   It came into effect on 8th September 2021, the feast of the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.             

The text of IGIv2 can be downloaded by clicking on the button below.
Additional Safeguarding resources can be accessed here.

In God's Image v.2

Lord Jesus we praise you for calling us to the service of others.

We pray for a generosity of spirit
to ensure the vulnerable are protected.

We pray for a compassionate heart so that we will reach out
to those who are wounded by abuse.

We pray for courage and determination
as we seek the safety of everyone in our parish communities.

We dedicate ourselves to this work of service
and pray that you will help us to do your will
at all times and in all places.

Amen.

Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency: