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C-BERSS EX-PRESS
December 2000
Issue 4, Vol 3
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All Newsletters : December 2000 : Support For Victims Of Abuse
Support For Victims Of Abuse
The Catholic Church has established a Resource Group in each Australian State to provide support for victims of abuse by church personnel (particularly abuse which is of a sexual nature) .
The service is available state wide through a toll-free contact number (listed below). All calls are responded to by a contact person who is responsible for providing support and assistance through the initial complaint process.
In cases where criminal abuse may have occurred, the complainant will be advised of their right to lodge a complaint with the police. Otherwise, they will be advised of the procedures followed by the Resource Group in assessing and responding to complaints. If the person appears to be in need of immediate help, counselling may be offered prior to an assessment.
Once a complaint has been validated, a facilitator is appointed to work with both the victim and the Church authority towards assisting the person who has been abused to deal with the trauma of the past, and to achieve a better future.
Where ongoing counselling is considered necessary, the person may opt for a professional counsellor of their own choice.
The Resource Group appreciates the opportunity to work closely with C-BERS Services in those instances where the person seeks C-BERS support.
Resource Group Toll Free Number: 1800 072 390
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cberss.org