Abuse and Harm 

Abuse and Harm: Our Commitment

The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand has a zero-tolerance policy for abuse or harm. We acknowledge the profound pain and trauma caused by past failures, and we are committed to ensuring that our Church is a place where everyone is safe, respected, and heard.

What is Abuse and Harm?

In the context of our safeguarding standards, Harm refers to any detrimental effect on a person’s physical, psychological, or emotional wellbeing. This includes:

• Sexual Abuse: Any conduct of a sexual nature that is inconsistent with the integrity of a pastoral relationship.

• Physical Abuse: Any non-accidental act resulting in physical harm.

• Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Persistent ill-treatment that causes adverse effects on a person’s emotional development or sense of worth.

• Neglect: The failure to provide for a person's basic physical or emotional needs.

How to Report Abuse

If you have experienced abuse by someone within the Church, or if you are concerned about the safety of a child or vulnerable adult, we encourage you to come forward. You will be treated with compassion and respect, and your report will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality.

1. Immediate Safety

If there is an immediate risk of harm, please contact the New Zealand Police (Dial 111) or Oranga Tamariki (0508 326 459).

2. Reporting to the Church

For all complaints involving sexual abuse or professional misconduct by clergy or religious (priests, brothers, or sisters), please contact the National Office for Professional Standards (NOPS):

• Phone: 0800 114 622

• Email: prof.standards@nzcbc.org.nz

• Website: safeguarding.catholic.org.nz

3. Support for Survivors

We understand that coming forward is a brave and difficult step. The Church operates under the protocol Te Houhanga Rongo – A Path to Healing, which prioritizes the welfare of survivors and provides pathways for redress, including counseling, apologies, and professional support.

4. Steps to be followed when you contact  the National Office for Professional Standards (NOPS)