Victim Assistance Coordinator

Overview

The Victim Assistance Coordinator (VAC) provides the initial response to individuals contacting the diocese to report allegations of abuse by church personnel. Their primary role is to facilitate healing for those victimized by church personnel through outreach, pastoral accompaniment throughout the civil and / or canonical legal processes and the coordination of services. The position is within the Child Protection Services Department of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston.

Employee Classification : PRN Contract (Part Time, hourly)

Reports To : Diocesan Official

Responsibilities

• Receiving abuse reports by church personnel is a required function and should be done with sensitivity and promptness.
• Returning telephone calls within a set timeframe (48 hours general, 24 hours hotline) adheres to the expected duty of responsiveness for victim support services.
• Documenting all data received and ensuring secure storage aligns with both civil law, canon law, and diocesan audit requirements.
• Conducting initial needs assessments and arranging pastoral or counseling referrals are fundamental elements of survivor-centered care and in line with USCCB protocols.
• Report of the allegation must be filed with the designated Diocesan Official within 24 hours.
• Informing victims / survivors of their rights and obligations upon receiving the initial report is crucial for both legal compliance and trauma-informed care.
• Coordinating immediate pastoral / spiritual care for victims and their families fulfills church and community support obligations defined in national guidelines.
• Maintaining confidentiality at all times regarding all case materials and communications reflects canon law and best HR / legal practice.
• Facilitating meetings with the bishop or designee, if desired by the victim / survivor, and attending review board meetings as needed are optional but recommended practices for pastoral outreach.
• Monitoring progress of clients referred for therapy and documenting all contacts, provider credentials, approval letters, billing, and logs of victim expenses meets diocesan audit standards and case-management best practice.
• Supporting parishes with community outreach when allegations affect the wider faith community is an important aspect of healing and transparency.
• Attending the USCCB Child and Youth Protection Catholic Leadership Conference yearly reflects commitment to ongoing training and national standards.
• Performing additional duties as assigned by protocol is standard language to cover evolving needs and tasks consistent with the role.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Working Conditions

Must have valid SC driver's license with minimum liability insurance of 100,000.00 / 300,000.00, pass a criminal background check, and have the appropriate licensure in good standing in the State of South Carolina.

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