TEN TIPS FOR PROTECTING CHILDREN AND OFFERING OUTREACH TO VICTIMS/SURVIVORS
1 Sexual abuse is about the victim. Many people are affected by abuse but the individual most impacted is the victim who has suffered a violation of trust that can affect his or her entire life.
2 The residual effects of having been abused can last a lifetime.
The sense of violation goes deep into a person’s psyche and feelings of anger, shame, hurt and betrayal can build long after the abuse has taken place. Those who have been abused can heal, but it often takes time, therapy, and the support of loved ones.
3 No one has the right to have access to children.
No one, no matter who they are, has an automatic right to be around children or young people who are in the care of the Church without proper screening and without following the rules.
4 Common sense is not all that common. Dioceses, schools, parishes, and especially families, must educate themselves and others on how to protect children.
5 Child sexual abuse can be prevented. It is critical to build safety barriers around children and young people to keep them from harm—such as protective guardians, codes of conduct, background evaluations, policies and procedures, and safety training programs.
6 Feeling heard leads toward healing. Relief from hurt and anger often comes