Message to Lay Faithful and Clergy

The Diocese has been made aware by the States of Jersey police that one of our priests, Father Peter Glas, has been charged with 10 offences against a minor. The charges relate to his time in ministry in Jersey which was during the period 2002 – 2008.

Since the concern was raised, and in accordance with our safeguarding policies and procedures, Fr Glas has not been in public ministry.

The Diocese has been in full cooperation with the statutory authorities throughout this time and the matter has been managed internally by our safeguarding team.

The judicial process must be allowed to take its course before any conclusions can be reached. Until criminal proceedings have concluded, which may take some time, it will not be possible to make any further comments.

Please keep everyone involved in all of this process in your prayers.

We recognise that hearing this news will be distressing, particularly for victims and survivors and we express our heartfelt sorrow for anyone who has suffered abuse within the Church.

The Church exists to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and we are totally committed to ensuring the safety and protection of every child, young person and adult at risk.  There are robust safeguarding standards, policies and procedures in operation within the Diocese of Portsmouth and throughout the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

We take all allegations of abuse seriously and all allegations are referred to the police and any other relevant authorities.

We pray regularly for all victims of abuse and we encourage anyone seeking support in relation to abuse or harm suffered resulting from their association with the Catholic Church to contact the Diocesan Safeguarding team either by email: safeguarding@portsmouthdiocese.org.uk or by telephone: 02394 216488.

Alternatively, victims can contact Safe Spaces by email: safespaces@firstlight.org.uk or telephone: 0300 303 1056. Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service that provide a confidential, personal and safe space. The Service operates Mon – Fri (0900-2100 hours), Sat (0900-1300 hours) and Sun (1300-1700 hours). An answerphone is available outside of these times.

Alternatively, contact can be made with Victims First, Jersey. Victims First provides support to anyone affected by crime, not only those who experienced it directly, but also friends and family. Support is available any time and for however long you might need. You can contact Victims First via telephone on 0800 735 1612 or via email victimsfirstjersey@gov.je