Accountability

The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People</em >is a comprehensive set of procedures established by the USCCB in June 2002, for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. In July 2002, the Diocese of Richmond developed and began implementing the Diocesan Safe Environment Regulations. These Regulations provide the Diocese of Richmond with an official procedure and structure to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by clergy and other church personnel. They are a part of a broad endeavor to ensure that the diocesan institutions and ministries provide a safe environment for children and the vulnerable.

The Diocese of Richmond continues its longstanding commitment to foster the dignity and sacredness of every human person. In the spirit of the commitment, the diocese pledges to continue its efforts to provide within the church an environment of love, respect and care for our children, for our youth and those who are vulnerable.

Each year the Diocese is audited to verify compliance with the requirements of the Charter. All pastors and principals submit a notarized statement outlining their compliance which becomes part of the audit.

Since 2019, the Office of Safe Environment has released an annual report to provide information and statistics from the most recent audit period.