Catholic Church admits it has treated victims badly

The Catholic Church’s child protection agency has admitted that victims of clerical abuse have at times been treated with suspicion and without sufficient respect.

The Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service (CSAS) says in its latest newsletter that the Church is reluctant to apologise to victims as it could leave it open to further legal challenges. 

The CSAS said the Church should provide “care pathways” for traumatised victims. 

However, Margaret Kennedy, who runs the group Minister and Clergy Sexual Abuse Survivors, said the Church should fund independent groups to carry out the care needed, as many victims wouldn’t use a church-run service.

SIC: NSS/INT'L