At St. Charles Lwanga Parish, we are deeply committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults. The safety and dignity of every person, especially the young and at-risk, is of paramount importance – this is rooted in our core value of respecting the inviolable right to life and human dignity[12].
Our parish follows the Child Protection Policy of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi (which in turn aligns with the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops guidelines and the Jesuit Safeguarding Protocols). Key points of our safeguarding commitment include:
- Safe Environment Training: All clergy, staff, catechists, and any volunteers working with children (choir animators, youth leaders, etc.) receive training on child protection. This training covers how to recognize signs of abuse, appropriate boundaries, and procedures for reporting concerns. We hold refresher workshops annually. In 2024, for instance, parish staff attended a seminar on safeguarding where topics like “safe recruitment” and “child rights and responsibilities” were discussed (echoing Strategic Plan action SI#8).
- Code of Conduct: We have a Code of Conduct that all who serve in ministry must sign, agreeing to uphold respectful behavior and zero tolerance for any form of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect). This code outlines expected behaviors (e.g., two adults present when with a group of minors, avoiding any form of corporal punishment, etc.) and forbidden behaviors.
- Safeguarding Officer: The parish has appointed a Safeguarding Representative (currently Sr. Mary Nzisa, FSA). She is the point person to receive any complaints or concerns regarding child/vulnerable adult safety. She can be contacted confidentially through the parish office or a dedicated email/phone line (displayed on our notice board). Sr. Mary has training in counseling and will ensure any report is taken seriously and dealt with according to Church and civil protocols.
- Procedures for Reporting: If anyone suspects abuse or has been a victim of abuse within the parish context, we urge you to report it immediately to the Safeguarding Rep or the Parish Priest. We guarantee compassion, confidentiality, and action. The parish will cooperate with civil authorities in reporting cases as required by law. We also have established links with professionals (counselors, social workers) and safe shelters in case a child or vulnerable person needs protection or support.
- Creating Awareness: Periodically, we conduct catechesis for our children and youth about their own safety – teaching them about their rights, appropriate boundaries, and how to speak up if something uncomfortable happens. Parents are also sensitized on issues like online safety and positive parenting skills (part of our strategic action to “promote parenting skills” and awareness of issues like child trafficking or exploitation).
- Screening: In line with “safely recruiting staff”, all new staff or volunteers who will work with minors undergo a basic background check and must provide references. We aim to ensure that those with a record of harming children are not given any role in our parish.
- Physical Safety Measures: Our compound and facilities are managed to be secure for children. The playground area is fenced, and during events like Sunday School classes, assigned adults supervise the kids. We encourage a culture of vigilance—“if you see something, say something.” Everyone in the parish is invited to be a guardian of our young ones’ welfare.
We pray for a Church and society where every child of God is safe from harm. As Pope Francis has stressed, “there is absolutely no place in ministry for those who abuse minors”, and we stand firmly by that. By cultivating an environment of transparency, accountability, and care, we hope to rebuild trust and ensure our parish is truly a sanctuary. For more information, you may request a copy of the Diocese’s full Safeguarding Policy at our office. Together, let’s make our community a model of Christian care and respect for the most vulnerable.