The Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Revd Dr John Perumbalath said
The Makin Report has yet again detailed horrific abuse which makes difficult reading. I cannot imagine the pain and anguish of those abused by John Smyth and we must keep them at the forefront of our thoughts. I pray for all those affected and share the righteous anger of so many on the failings of the Church of England to tackle this abuse.
The Archbishop has taken responsibility and resigned his position however we must remember all of our roles and responsibilities to safeguard those who come and worship with us. We need to see a culture where people feel they can come forward and report abuse secure in the knowledge that these matters will be properly and thoroughly investigated with survivors fully supported.
This is a difficult time for the church and we have much to reflect and learn from. I acknowledge that this may cause particular pain to many individuals and I urge anyone affected to reach out and find support. We will take all reports extremely seriously and will determinedly work to support all victims and survivors of abuse. I would like to recognise all those clergy and laity who likewise work to make our churches safe spaces for all.
The Dean of Liverpool, the Very Revd Dr Sue Jones added
Like so many in the community I have reacted with horror at the details of the abuse by John Smyth and I share the widespread concern that so many have had with the response of the Church of England to this dreadful abuse. I pray for those survivors and all survivors of abuse.
I understand and respect why Archbishop Justin has chosen to take responsibility and resign. However, the Church of England needs to learn the lessons about the way we do safeguarding. As Dean, I remain committed to working hard to have a strong safeguarding culture, support survivors and provide a safe space for all at Liverpool Cathedral.
Safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool
We take all reports and allegations seriously and if you, or anyone you are in contact with, are affected by this and want to talk to someone independently please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or email safespaces@victimsupport.org.uk. There are other support services available.
You could also contact the diocesan safeguarding advisor at safeguarding@liverpool.anglican.org
For more information about safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool go to liverpoolcofe.org/safeguarding-matters/
