The Diocese of Shrewsbury Safeguarding Office has welcomed students from the Institute of Anthropology at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome as part of an academic placement organised by the Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS).
The placement provides students undertaking the Licentiate in Safeguarding with an opportunity to supplement their academic studies through practical experience, professional engagement and the sharing of best practice in safeguarding.
Following a similar visit by a previous group of students in 2025, the Diocese of Shrewsbury was pleased to respond to a further request from the students and RLSS to learn about safeguarding provision within a Catholic diocese in England and Wales.
During their visit to the diocesan curial office, the students met with Andrew O’Brien, Diocesan Safeguarding Coordinator, who provided an overview of the safeguarding framework operating within the Diocese of Shrewsbury. The session explored the practical application of safeguarding policies and procedures, alongside the structures in place to support the protection of children and adults at risk.
The students were also introduced to the various roles and responsibilities involved in safeguarding across the diocese, including the work undertaken to support parishes, clergy, religious and volunteers in fulfilling their safeguarding responsibilities.
Discussion also highlighted the importance of collaboration between dioceses and the wider Church safeguarding network. This included the Diocese’s engagement with the Religious Life Safeguarding Service and the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency, alongside other organisations working to strengthen safeguarding practice.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity for the students to connect their academic learning with the realities of safeguarding in a diocesan setting. It also offered an opportunity for professional dialogue and the exchange of knowledge, recognising that safeguarding challenges can vary significantly across different countries, cultures and Church structures.
By welcoming students undertaking specialist safeguarding studies, the Diocese of Shrewsbury continues to contribute to the wider sharing of knowledge and experience that supports the development of effective safeguarding practice, both within the Catholic Church in England and Wales and internationally.
