HCPT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. It expects all of its Trustees, helpers and staff to share this commitment.

HCPT recognises its responsibility for safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults whilst providing quality pilgrimage holidays and residential retreats. In particular, it recognises the additional vulnerability of those disabled children and vulnerable adults who may be making their first holiday away from home and loved ones.

Our Safeguarding guidebook (version 3.1, December 2015) includes all our policies and procedures, and can be seen here.

All HCPT staff, Group Leaders and Deputy Group Leaders receive robust safeguarding training prior to travel, and offer thorough preparation to all helpers travelling with their groups. At our annual helpers' preparation day, we provide safeguarding training for all volunteers travelling to Lourdes.

All volunteers with HCPT must have a qualifying certificate from DBS. Current guidance on procedures and which certificates are classed as ‘qualifying’ can be viewed here. From 1st December 2015, all DBS applications will be handled via the HCPT website.