St Rita of Cascia (1381-1457) became an Augustinian nun after being widowed. She had previously endured 18 years of marriage to a rich, but quick-tempered and violent husband. She prayed constantly for her husband to experience a change of heart – and he did. When he was later killed in a ‘vendetta’ or ‘honour-feud’, she prevented her sons from seeking revenge. St Rita is now a Patron Saint of all people suffering spousal abuse and family feuds, so is one of our ‘Safeguarding Saints’.

Reporting Safeguarding Concerns: If you have information of a safeguarding nature where a child or adult at risk is in immediate danger or requires immediate medical attention call emergency services on 999. Diocese of Leeds Safeguarding can be contacted in confidence by email via Safeguarding@dioceseofleeds.org.uk or speak to our Safeguarding Team on 0113 2618046. Anyone who brings concerns or allegations to the notice of the Church will be responded to sensitively, respectfully and seriously. All concerns and allegations will be addressed using the Church’s national procedures and in a timely manner. The Catholic Safeguarding Standard Agency (CSSA) can also be contacted on 0207 901 1920 or via email at admin@catholicsafeguarding.org.uk

Safeguarding is Everybody’s Business – so EVERYBODY is invited to share their thoughts with us about Safeguarding in the Diocese of Leeds, in confidence, using our website’s Safeguarding Feedback Form!

St Rita of Cascia: pray for us!