I am the Safeguarding Advisor to the Columban Missionaries in Britain, supporting the Society in all matters relating to safeguarding. As a qualified Social Worker, I have worked in the field of safeguarding within the Church for more than 20 years, helping to promote safe environments and a culture of care, respect and accountability.

A key part of my role is being available to respond to any concerns about abuse or inappropriate behaviour, including situations that may have taken place many years ago. I work to ensure that concerns are listened to carefully, handled appropriately and addressed with sensitivity and professionalism. I am also responsible for helping to ensure that Columban priests and staff undergo the necessary safeguarding checks, receive ongoing training and remain up to date with current safeguarding policies and best practice.

I work closely with the Religious Life Safeguarding Service in Britain and am a member of the international Columban safeguarding team. This enables me to contribute to safeguarding initiatives across the wider Columban Society and to share learning and good practice with colleagues around the world.

My academic background is in Sociology, and my early career was spent in community development work in inner-city communities. These experiences gave me a strong appreciation of the challenges faced by vulnerable people and a lasting commitment to social justice and inclusion. Over the years, I have also undertaken lecturing work and contributed articles and reflections on faith and society to a variety of publications and local radio programmes.

I am married with three grown-up children and four grandchildren. As a family, we share a deep love of the natural world and are committed to its enjoyment, protection and conservation. Caring for creation is something that is important to me, and I believe it is closely connected to caring for one another and safeguarding the wellbeing of future generations.

Through my work with the Columbans, I am privileged to support the Society’s mission by helping to ensure that the dignity, safety and wellbeing of all people remains a priority in everything we do.