If you are reading this page, it may be because something has happened to you, or is happening to you, and you are looking for support. Or you may be looking for support for someone close to you, or others who you believe are suffering.

There may be many reasons why you have not spoken out before. It can feel overwhelming and frightening, but it can also be the first step towards support, healing, and recovery. You are not to blame for what happened to you and there is support available.

The Diocese of Carlisle strives to respond to victims and survivors of abuse in a Trauma-Informed manner. We are also committed to the good practice that is outlined in the  Responding Well to Victims and Survivors of Abuse 2021 policy. Further details can be accessed here.

It is your choice who you share your experience or concerns with. You will be heard and supported. Your concerns will be taken seriously, no matter how recent or long ago the abuse took place, or where it took place.  We are here to hear you.

At a local level: Within your local church or Parish, you may wish to speak to your Parish Safeguarding Officer or a member of the clergy. Details should be available on local websites and the Promoting a Safer Church posters within each Church.

At a Diocesan Level: You can always contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO) Joanna Van Lachterop directly via Tel: 07458 016884 or Email: safeguarding.adviser@carlislediocese.org.uk.

If your concern relates to a Church Officer, please contact the DSO directly. There may be other occasions where someone may have a safeguarding concern but does not wish to discuss this in the parish context. If this is the case, the DSO can be contacted directly via the details above or via the Safeguarding Concerns Reporting Form at the bottom of this page.

You can also report a concern using the form which is embedded at the top of this page or via the link below or email safeguarding@carlislediocese.org.uk

Report a Concern to Carlisle Diocesan Safeguarding Team

External to the Diocese: We recognise however that if you have a lived experience of abuse involving your relationship with the Church, you might want to talk initially to someone not connected to our diocese. In that case you can contact Safe Spaces. Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service, providing a confidential, personal, and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales or the Church in Wales. Contact the Safe Spaces Team here. Make a referral here.