NEW ZEALAND
NZ Catholic
By Michael Otto – July 3, 2017
Christchurch diocese has appointed a safeguarding coordinator, and is the first diocese in New Zealand to have such a dedicated position.
Virginia Noonan, who has an extensive background in law and a long involvement in Catholic education, started in the part-time role on May 8.
The National Office for Professional Standards has recommended that each diocese appoint a safeguarding coordinator.
Ms Noonan reports directly to the Christchurch diocese’s Bishop’s Pastoral Office director Michael Stopforth and will work with the bishop directly as needed. Mr Stopforth told NZ Catholic that the role of the safeguarding coordinator is to assist the bishop in ensuring that safeguarding guidelines approved by the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference and heads of religious orders are implemented in Christchurch diocese.
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