Under Canon Law, a diocese is defined as a particular Church, entrusted to the pastoral care of a bishop. The bishop has ordinary, proper, and immediate authority within his own diocese. This means:

• He is the chief pastor, leader, and decision-maker for all matters within his diocese.
• He has authority that comes directly from the Church, not delegated by any national body.
• He is responsible for governance, safeguarding, liturgy, clergy management, and pastoral priorities in his own territory.

Although dioceses are independent of each other, they remain in communion with the worldwide Catholic Church and under the supreme authority of the Pope. However, the Pope does not manage dioceses day-to-day; this responsibility lies with the diocesan bishop.

In UK civil law:

• Dioceses are typically registered as charitable trusts or charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs).
• Each diocese has its own trustees, governance structure, finances, policies, and accountabilities.
• No diocese is legally responsible for or subsidiary to another.

This means each diocese is independently accountable for safeguarding.

Each diocese has its own Safeguarding office. You can make contact using the details provided here.

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