The Diocese of Northampton is pleased to announce the receipt of an £1,800 grant from the Northamptonshire Safer Fund Small Grants Scheme. This funding, provided by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone, will enable our deacons and priests to receive specialised trauma support training from the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC).
While our clergy already participate in national and local safeguarding training, this grant allows us to further enhance our ministry by commissioning professional trauma-informed survivor support training. This initiative aligns with Commissioner Stone’s commitment to continually improve services for victims within Northamptonshire’s justice system.
Commissioner Stone expressed her support, stating: “I’m so pleased we have been able to work with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton to support them in their important work in responding to the needs of victims and survivors. It is always great to see campaigns that focus on supporting victims and promote safer communities here in Northamptonshire, both of which are at the very centre of my Safe and Sound plan.”
The forthcoming training sessions, available both in-person and online, will be promoted through our internal communication channels and endorsed by senior clergy members. These enhanced sessions aim to ensure that anyone wishing to report harm or abuse receives a compassionate response and appropriate guidance for ongoing support.
Danielle Dixon, our Safeguarding Co-ordinator, emphasised the importance of this training: “The training will help to increase the knowledge and understanding of clergy in relation to trauma-informed practice, increase confidence and serve to reduce the likelihood of victims and survivors experiencing re-traumatisation through their contact with the Church.”
We are grateful for this opportunity to better serve our community and remain committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all.
