The call for police checks followed the publication last week of the first independent report into child protection in the Catholic church in England and Wales, and is one of 50 recommendations aimed at making the church environment safer and more secure for children. The report, compiled by a committee headed by Lord Nolan, builds on guidelines on preventing child abuse published in 1994, with proposals aimed at improving existing diocesan and national structures and procedures, so that parishes are supported in their efforts to protect children in their care.
Recommendations include the requirement for applicants for any type of church work to disclose details of criminal offences against children, the creation of a designated child protection representative in every Catholic parish, and the development of a child protection co-ordinator for every religious order and diocese. According to the committee, these appointments would help guidelines to be implemented and regularly reviewed and ensure a swift response to any allegations that might arise.
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