Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care: Stolen Lives, Marked Souls Report
Wednesday 2 August 2023
St John of God Hauora Trust acknowledges the release of the Royal Commission’s Report Stolen Lives, Marked Souls. The Report provides an enduring record of historical abuse experienced by survivors at Marylands School and Hebron Trust by the Brothers of St John of God.
Commenting on the report on behalf of St John of God Hauora Trust, Chief Executive Officer Sarah Hillier acknowledges “the horrific abuse experienced by survivors of Marylands School and Hebron Trust. They endured neglect and abuse at a time when they were most vulnerable, and most in need of professional support. Those responsible had a duty to ensure the protection of children and young people, and they failed.”
“Through their bravery in providing their testimony, the Stolen Lives, Marked Souls Report provides an enduring reminder of our collective commitment and responsibilities in protecting children and young people, particularly those from vulnerable communities.”
St John of God Hauora Trust was established in 2008 as a controlled entity of the Australian St John of God Health Care. The establishment of the Trust incorporated services formerly operated by the Brothers of St John of God, including a residential disability care facility in Halswell, and social services agency in Christchurch East.
St John of God Hauora Trust maintains independently audited partnerships with a range of agencies involved in the care and protection of vulnerable young people, including the Ministry of Social Development, Oranga Tamariki, Te Whatu Ora, Whaikaha and Manatū Hauora.
The organisation maintains checks and balances to ensure a safe environment for residents, clients, visitors, and employees. This includes compliance with legislation, and policy related to child protection, professional conduct, and safeguarding frameworks – as well as training for all staff on appropriate workplace and clinical conduct.
To the best of our knowledge, no allegations of child sexual abuse have ever been raised against St John of God Hauora Trust. The organisation has actively responded to any information requests from the Commission, or representatives of entities directly engaged in Commission processes.
Enquiries relating to care provided by the Hospitaller Order of the Brothers of St John of God should be directed to the National Office for Professional Standards of the Catholic Church ([email protected]).
For more information relating to St John of God Hauora Trust contact George Anderson, General Manager Communications and Marketing on [email protected]