Monday, January 25, 2021
Diocese of Springfield contracts with Stop It Now! to conduct focus groups, surveys with individuals who have been sexually abused
SPRINGFIELD – The Independent Task Force on the Response to Sexual Abuse within the Diocese of Springfield announced a contract with Stop It Now!, an internationally recognized sexual abuse prevention organization, to independently create a safe forum for those who have experienced sexual abuse within the Catholic Church to share their experiences and insights.
Stop It Now! will conduct confidential focus groups and surveys. The information will help inform the task force which is charged with providing recommendations to Bishop William Byrne on how to improve the response to sexual abuse allegations in the diocese.
Stop It Now! has no affiliation with the Catholic Church or any other faith community.
Stop It Now!, founded by an individual who was sexually abused, has nearly 30 years of experience of working with families and organizations to identify behaviors that pose risks, and educating the public around preventing sexual abuse.
Stop It Now! encourages individuals wishing to participate to reach out through Jan. 25 by calling (413) 587-3502 and leaving a message on a confidential voicemail, providing first name and call-back number, or by email, , subject line ‘You Matter.’ For more information, visit www.stopitnow.org/youmatter.