Safeguarding Sunday – 8 September 2024
This weekend, the Catholic Church in Australia marks Safeguarding Sunday, on which we pray for those who have been abused, their families and supporters. We recognise and apologise for the harm done by priests, religious and lay people in Church settings. Rebuilding trust and confidence in the Church requires constant work and vigilance.
We recommit to cultural change that will help the Church be a place that respects the dignity of all children and adults at risk, and empowers and listens to all people, especially those who are vulnerable. You can find out more about the Church’s work in this area at: https://www.catholic.au/s/article/Safeguarding-Sunday-2024
National Child Protection Week
This year’s theme, “Every Conversation Matters”.
1 –7 September is National Child Protection Week and Queensland Child Protection Week followed by Safeguarding Sunday on next Sunday 8 September.
In 2024, the National Child Protection Week message that ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go’ will be complemented with the theme ‘Every conversation matters’. Conversations are powerful tools to keep children and young people safe and well.
Spotlight on Cyberbullying
This week is our opportunity to recognise and support the safety and well-being of our children. We all have a shared responsibility to prevent bullying & create safe inclusive spaces online and offline.
There are many new resources developed by the National Online Safety Education Council. These resources are accessible by parents, children, and schools to prevent and respond to cyberbullying. They have also prepared a Consent and online Boundaries webinar for parents and carers of primary aged children, to help empower families to feel confident about keeping their children safe online.
Let us stand together in prayer, to support and guide our precious children towards safety and well-being.
– Janine Curcuruto, Local Safeguarding Representative
Safeguarding Sunday ~ 8 September 2024
