RCAV Response

The Archdiocese of Vancouver should establish an “Intake Office” for complaints staffed by individuals specifically trained to deal with the complexities of clergy sexual abuse. Staff should include lay women and men versed in trauma-informed practice. Responsibilities should include: 

• Receiving allegations of misconduct on behalf of the Archdiocese (the Committee notes especially that the first point of contact should not be a cleric); 
• Having staff that are professionally trained (trauma-informed) to receive allegations and conduct detailed compassionate enquiry 
• Documenting all information and communication regarding every allegation in writing; 
• Reporting all claims to the police immediately in cases of child sexual abuse, whether historic or not – this should not be the responsibility of the victim, although the victim may well wish to take part in this; 
• Ensuring that every allegation is sent in a timely manner to the “Review Board” for evaluation; 
• Protecting and supporting whistleblowers throughout the process; 
• Appointing an independent resource person to assist and support victims through the process;
• Liaising with the select group of trauma-informed clerics should the survivors need or desire to speak to a cleric at this juncture. (see Training and Policies C:18)