Safeguarding Elderly Religious Project

We are pleased to inform you about our collaborative project with RLSS focused on improving the safety and well-being of elderly Religious. Endorsed by the Executive in April, this initiative has also secured funding from Porticus. Both CoR and RLSS have a wealth of experience in working with older adults within the community, care and hospital settings. This includes aspects of human resources work, safeguarding, training and governance. This breadth of knowledge and expertise will be invaluable to implementing good practice across Religious Life Groups when caring for older people.

A dedicated working group has been established, chaired by Susan Thomas and comprising Jane Bertelsen FMDM, Sophia Rattigan, Harriet Ingham (representing RLSS), and other lay professionals who may be co-opted as needed. The first working group meeting was held on 18th June to kickstart our collaborative efforts.

CoR will hold responsibility for managing joint reporting to Porticus, overseeing the project's budget, steering its strategic direction, and advising on engaging Religious communities in this vital work. Susan and Jane will provide invaluable guidance on Religious healthcare provision, community care, and other critical issues pertinent to this initiative.

The aim of the project will be to create and implement best practice which is tailored to the needs of Religious Life. This will include the implementation of policy and guidance and training resources for the safeguarding and care of older adults within religious communities.

We look forward to keeping you informed as this important project progresses.

Susan Thomas General Secretary