The first sign that the organisation is open to victims and does not tolerate violence is a transparent and effective mechanism for responding to violence cases. According to a series of documents issued by the Apostolic See, and in particular thanks to the document Vademecum 2.0, “On some procedural aspects of working with cases of sexual abuse of minors by clergy”, the Church developed and presented an algorithm for responding to violence in its environment.
The scheme of the reaction algorithm in the appendix is formed based on Vademecum 2.0. It offers guidelines on how to react when the offender is an employee/volunteer in the church and in cases where the appeal comes from representatives of other spheres. The document also explains what happens after the case is reported to the bishop/superintendent of the congregation; guidelines for cooperation with civil authorities, and compliance with confidentiality.
If the offender is an employee or volunteer in a church structure or the offense occurred as part of a church event, see the first quick steps here.
Proper support of the victim and their relatives is also integral to the response. You can compile a contact list of psychologists and lawyers willing to provide emergency free consultation.
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