Healing and Prevention

Healing and Prevention

It is the role and the responsibility of the Diocese of Worcester to implement the Policy of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. This was initially issued in 2005 and reissued in 2011. The Charter is a comprehensive set of procedures to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. It includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention of future acts of abuse.

In addition, the Office for Healing & Prevention is required to oversee the enforcement of the Policy and Procedures for the Protection of Minors and to offer outreach to victims and their families. 

The objectives of the office include the following:

• Provide prompt and effective response to allegations  


• Offer healing and reconciliation to survivors and their families


• Create a safe environment for children and young people


• Cooperate with civil authorities


• Provide means of accountability for the future to ensure the problem is effectively resolved

More information about the Charter can be found here: Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People