‘In God’s Image’ – the document which is an ‘Instruction on Safeguarding’ from the Bishops of Scotland to all Catholic jurisdictions in Scotland – was published in March 2018 initially for a three-year period. The Bishops are now preparing for the publication of version 2 of this document to reflect any significant Safeguarding developments that have occurred since first publication. The intended publication date is June 2021. Until then, ‘In God’s Image’ V1 will remain valid.
The Bishops are seeking views from all interested groups and individuals on any changes they would propose to the current text in the light of their experience. This invitation extends to dioceses, parishes, religious congregations, organisations, to clergy and laypeople, to professional Safeguarding staff and volunteers, to those in Scotland and beyond, to those in other churches or faith groups and to all who are interested in keeping children and vulnerable adults safe in every Church environment.
Above all, the Bishops are keen to hear from survivors or victims of abuse so that the Church can learn from past mistakes and plan to ensure appropriate and sensitive responses to all allegations and concerns.
If you wish to offer any suggestions for changes to the current text of ‘In God’s Image’, please use this form https://bit.ly/3cuTsnP.
The closing date for submission of comments is 30thNovember 2020.
