Our charism encourages us to seek to imitate Mary in her unique role as Mother of God, to conceive, give birth to and nurture the life of Christ. This is a life of love in our hearts, our communities and in our world today. This understanding guides us to view safeguarding not just as policy or procedure, but as a manifestation of compassion and care for the vulnerable, reflecting the loving heart of Our Lady in all our relationships and actions.
At the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood (FMDM), safeguarding is at the heart of our ministry, community life and service. We are called by the Gospel to protect and care for the most vulnerable, with compassion and deep reverence for the dignity of each person as a child of God.
Safeguarding means creating a culture of safety and vigilance: a community where children, young people and adults at risk are valued, supported and kept free from harm or abuse. We aim to foster an atmosphere of trust, honesty and fairness, where concerns can be raised without fear and appropriate action is taken promptly and sensitively.
We follow the guidance and standards set by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA), which provides a framework for safeguarding across the Catholic Church in England and Wales. This includes clear procedures for response and disclosure, rigorous training for all members and ongoing monitoring and reflection on our practice. Our policy and procedures align with both civil legislation and canonical obligations, reflecting our moral and legal responsibilities in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
If you wish to raise a concern or learn more about our safeguarding practices, please feel free to get in touch with our Safeguarding Lead via the ‘Contact Us’ page. All reports will be dealt with in confidence and with discretion, ensuring the safety and dignity of all involved.
Together, we strive to create a community where everyone’s dignity is upheld and safeguarded, reflecting the care of Christ for all.
Safe Spaces – Independent Support for Survivors of Church–Related Abuse
As part of our commitment to fostering a culture of care, safety and transparency, the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood signpost survivors of church–related abuse to Safe Spaces, an external, free and independent support service.
Safe Spaces provides a confidential, personal and compassionate space for anyone who has experienced abuse connected with the Catholic Church in England and Wales, the Church of England or the Church in Wales, including abuse arising through their relationship with religious communities.
Delivered independently by First Light, Safe Spaces offers specialist, trauma-informed support to adults over 18, whether the abuse occurred recently or many years ago. Support is available regardless of whether a report has been made to the Church or the police, and regardless of current religious affiliation.
How Safe Spaces Can Help
Trained Support Advocates offer:
- Emotional support and a listening ear
- Guidance on understanding your rights and options
- Support in navigating church or legal processes
- Help accessing mental health and wellbeing resources
Safe Spaces operates nationally, with no waiting lists, and remains fully independent of the Catholic Church and the Church of England.
Contact Safe Spaces
- Helpline: 0300 303 1056
- Opening Hours:
• Monday–Friday: 9am–9pm
• Saturday: 9am–1pm
• Sunday: 1pm–5pm - Website: safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
FMDM Foundation CIO Safeguarding Statement
The Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood are committed to building a Culture of Safeguarding which permeates every aspect of our Life and Mission across the world.
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FMDM Foundation CIO Policy and Procedures
The protection of the vulnerable lies at the heart of our Christian and Franciscan vocation and therefore Safeguarding cannot be seen as a ‘task’ to be done or a ‘file to be stored’ – rather it is an intrinsic part of our consciousness and the life and mission of our communities and ministries.
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