The Safe Environment Program (SEP) is mandated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Diocese of St. Petersburg,  and certain Florida statues to protect children, youth, and vulnerable adults from abuse, especially sexual abuse.

The Diocese of St. Petersburg SEP programs are meant to enable children and vulnerable adults to feel secure and protected in their surroundings.  We want our children and youth to feel free to receive a Catholic education and to experience healthy relationships.  We want to foster a safe environment and to provide a healthy and loving relationship in the image of God for our vulnerable adults who may be sick and or shut-in,  and for our elderly who may be suffering from the infirmities of aging.