The initiative promoted by the UISG and USG will be held at the "Fraterna Domus" in Sacrofano from 6 to 10 November with an attendance of over 130 participants of 39 different nationalities.

Rome, 2nd of November 2023 - 'Creating a Culture of Safeguarding'. This is the of the workshop, promoted by the two Unions of Superiors General (USG-UISG), which will be discussed by 132 participants, coming from 90 congregations and representing 39 different nationalities. The event will be held from 6 to 10 November 2023 at the "Fraterna Domus” in Sacrofano, on the outskirts of Rome, and will aim to help those with responsibility for care and protection to build a culture of safeguarding in their religious congregations. This is an unprecedented opportunity for religious leaders and safeguard delegates from around the world to learn, share experiences and collaborate to promote a safe and inclusive environment for all members of religious congregations and the people they serve, especially minors and vulnerable adults.

The five main objectives of the workshop are:

• provide comprehensive training on the steps to be taken to create a culture of safeguarding through protection and prevention;
• provide detailed information on the theme of the abuse of minors, vulnerable adults, religious members, and young people in training; 
• give voice to the victims of abuse, allowing them to share their stories; 
• deepen knowledge of abuse prevention practices, including training and implementation of procedures to be adopted in the context of safeguarding; 
• explore ways to respond to problems, including handling allegations, the role of civil and canon law, caring for abused persons and communicating effectively with others.

Among the facilitators of the meeting are internationally renowned experts in the field of safeguarding and abuse prevention including Brother Brendan Geary, Sister Maria Rosaura González Casas, Father Tim Brennan, Tina Campbell and Sister Tiziana Merletti.

“Abusive situations are a serious problem we must address and this workshop is an opportunity to learn how to create safe environments for the members of our congregations and the people we serve,” says Brother Emili Turú, USG General Secretary, co-organiser of this event. 

Sr. Mary John Kudiyiruppil, the Vice Secretary of UISG, stated, “We are thrilled to see that so many people from around the world have decided to join us for this important event.”