Safeguarding
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child or adult at risk, do not delay in contacting the police, if you believe there is immediate danger using 999. If the incident is not ongoing or the person is not in imminent danger, ring 101 and ask for the Police Force for the area where the concern exists. If you are in any role within the Catholic Church in England and Wales, you must refer allegations directly to the Diocesan safeguarding office or religious congregation, or directly to the Police.
If you are a member of the public, please refer allegations directly to the police and also to the Diocesan safeguarding office by tel: 0191 243 3305 or by email: safeguarding@diocesehn.org.uk.
You can also contact Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA) Tel: 0207 901 1920.
St Thomas of Canterbury Billingham local representative is Pat McTimoney and can be contacted on 01740 644347.
If you wish to remain anonymous, concerns can be sent to CrimeStoppers 0800 555111 or online here.
It is the policy of the Catholic Church in England and Wales to report all allegations of abuse to statutory authorities, regardless of whether the abuse occurred recently or in the past, or whether the accused person is living or deceased.