The diocese’s code of conduct for clergy and staff

THE Child Protection Office of the Irish Bishops’ Conference was established in July 2001 to advise bishops, clergy and lay people on best practice in responding to complaints of child abuse against members of the Catholic Church.

Since its foundation, it has delivered Child Protection Awareness Sessions to priests and lay people across the 26 dioceses in Ireland.

The diocese of Ferns recently issued a code of conduct for clergy, staff and volunteers. It states:

* Pastoral ministry to a child / young person should only take place in a publicly accessible place e.g. designated office or room with a clear glass window. The door should always be left open.

* You should plan never to be alone in a building, car or a closed room with a child / young person

* Casual visits by children and young people to the homes of volunteers, priests and youth workers are to be avoided

* Providing accommodation in the parochial house for minors is prohibited except in the case of family members or children / young people accompanied by parents or guardians

* Ensure that the buildings and /or facilities used for activities with children / young people are suitable, safe and secure

* Ensure that adequate and appropriate supervision is in place before organising activities with children and young people

* Written consent must be obtained from parents / guardians before organising activities for the children / young people in your care and establish whether there are any specific medical or dietary requirements

* Particular care should be taken to ensure that the privacy of children / young people is respected in places such as swimming pools, showers, toilets and changing rooms

* When working with children / young people take care to avoid the trap of becoming a “parental figure” or over-involved with one particular child

* Holidays organised by groups require careful advanced planning and a proportionate number of suitable volunteers to provide adequate supervision. Keep gender balance in mind

* Do not take photographs of children / young people while they are in changing areas (e.g. a locker room or bathing facility)

* Use only age-appropriate language, media products and activities in working with children and young people. Sexually explicit materials are never appropriate

* Under no circumstances give alcohol, tobacco or drugs to children or young people.