Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency

Establishment of the SCSSA

The Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (SCSSA) has been established as an independent Safeguarding agency to promote and assure compliance with national safeguarding standards across all Catholic Church jurisdictions in Scotland. (NB. This website is currently being revised.)

Reporting allegations of abuse

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 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 here).

You can also contact the Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (SCSSA) by telephoning 0141 332 7177 or by email at admin@scssa.org.uk

In God's Image v2

IN GOD'S IMAGE is the Instruction of the Bishops of Scotland on Safeguarding policy which is to be followed in all jurisdictions of the Catholic Church in Scotland. V2 was published online on 19th August 2021 and came into force on 8th September 2021.  It can be read online here.

National Safeguarding Prayer

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.