Like everyone who has read the Makin Review we are disturbed and saddened by the details it contains, and its conclusion that the victims of John Smyth were failed by the Church in multiple ways over a number of decades.
Safeguarding is at the heart of our mission to love our neighbour and protect the vulnerable. As bishops, we are committed to creating a safe and healthy culture for all in our churches and church schools, where power is not abused, crimes are not hidden, people feel able to speak-up, victims are heard, and action is taken.
As bishops we will work with the senior leadership of the Church of England, as well as organisations like 31:8, and through initiatives like the INEQE audit, to ensure our safeguarding structures and procedures are fit for purpose.
With news of Archbishop Justin’s resignation we are thankful to Archbishop Justin for his ministry, mission and leadership over the past 11 years. He has chosen to take personal responsibility for safeguarding failures. We hold him, his wife Caroline and their children in our prayers.
If you have been affected by the Makin Review and would like confidential, independent, support, please contact the Safe Spaces helpline.
If you would like to report a safeguarding concern, please contact the Diocese of Exeter Safeguarding Team: Diocese of Exeter Safeguarding Team
Bishop Mike, Bishop Jackie and Bishop James
