First edition of NOPS safeguarding newsletter issued

NOPS national director Virginia Noonan said the “purpose of this first edition is to provide an overview of the work of our office and introduce the National Safeguarding and Professional Standards Committee”.

“Through these newsletters, we will share regular updates on safeguarding across Aotearoa New Zealand, offer insights and practical tools, and invite ongoing learning and collaboration,” Ms Noonan said.

“Safeguarding is not simply a policy or procedure; it is a living expression of our faith in action, and we thank you for your dedication and partnership as, together, we continue to grow a culture of care that honours the dignity of every person.”

The first edition has a message from Philip Hamlin, the chair of the National Safeguarding and Professional Standards Committee, which carries out oversight of NOPS and gives strategic guidance to Church leadership on safeguarding and professional standards across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The newsletter noted that, “since 2021, NOPS has been conducting safeguarding reviews of our Catholic dioceses, religious congregations and national organisations throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. Over the last 12 months we have increased our focus on this work to complete a review of all Catholic organisations by September”.

“These reviews are part of our ongoing commitment to ensure that safeguarding policies are not only in place, but are actively shaping culture, behaviour, and practice at every level of Church life.

“Once all reviews have been completed, our learnings will be published and all organisations placed on a regular review cycle,” the newsletter noted.  

“Our goal is not just compliance, but creating communities where safety, accountability and care are embedded in everything we do.”

The newsletter discusses the complaint process, lists news and events, and also summarises a visit earlier this year by safeguarding expert Fr Hans Zollner, SJ.

FULL STORY

An Update on Safeguarding across Aotearoa New Zealand (National Office for Professional Standards)