If non-compliance with safeguarding policy and /or procedures is identified through the parish audit or through visits to parishes made by trainers/resource persons, a staged process will be adopted in addressing the identified issues, as outlined below.
Stage 1: The diocesan training/resource person has the primary role in identifying where difficulties arise and in offering support in addressing them. Where an issue is identified the resource person will determine whether training/support is needed to address the issue, ensure that this is provided and agree a timeframe for action. Experience has shown that difficulties are usually successfully dealt with at this stage.
Stage 2: If the issue is not resolved, the Diocesan Safeguarding Committee becomes actively involved. A follow up visit is arranged by the resource person and a committee member (or by two committee members). The aim is both to support the resource person and to emphasise the serious nature of the issue. Ways of addressing the issue are discussed; a plan of action agreed and implemented.
Stage 3: If this intervention is not successful then the matter will be referred to the committee for consideration. The committee will then advise the Bishop on how to proceed.
At all stages the intention is to gain acceptance of, and compliance with, policy and procedures.