n recent years we have become all too familiar with the sad headlines and disclosures of the abuse of children and the traumatic and devastating impact this has had on them and their families.  It is therefore crucial that we as a Parish community do all that we can to provide a welcoming and caring environment for all our children.  In this way the love of Christ may be experienced and shared by everyone in the Parish.

What will be happening?
A Child Care Committee (CCC) is being set up in every Parish with the Diocese of Down and Connor.  The CCC in this Parish has already begun the audit of groups/activities and individuals who directly/indirectly work with children and young people.  Individuals who are not currently working according to a recognised child protection policy and procedure will now be required to undertake child protection training and consent to a POCVA check (vetting process). 

The CCC are not experts in child protection and neither will they be involved in investigating any suspected allegations or disclosures of child abuse.  This is the role and function of Social Services/NSPCC and the PSNI.  The CCC are individuals who have a particular interest in safeguarding and protecting children and young people in the Parish and promoting “Best Practice”, that is, thinking about and understanding how best to create the environment in which children and young people are respected and encouraged to reach their full potential according to Christian values.  It also means putting practical measures in place to protect children and young people and the adults who are responsible for them.  Within the Committee there is a commitment to sharing skills, knowledge and experience so that children/young people and all who work with them will experience the highest standards of pastoral care with our parish. 

The Child Care Committee in St Luke’s Parish came into existence in the early part of 2006.  As a result, the following individuals from within the Parish attended the required training, formed the Committee, and have set about implementing the above process.

If the CCC is to work effectively it will require the support of all Parishioners so that together we can build on the excellent work already being done in our Parish with children and young people.