The Charity Commission has issued a formal warning to the Trustees of the Liverpool Diocesan Board of Finance. This follows an investigation by the Commission into the circumstances that led to the resignation of the former Bishop of Liverpool, the Right Reverend Dr John Perumbalath, in January 2025.

Allegations were raised against the former Bishop of Liverpool in 2023. These allegations were denied; however, the Commission has found that trustees did not adequately discharge their safeguarding responsibilities in relation to the reporting of these allegations and that there were failings in our processes and procedures.

We accept the Commission’s findings and apologise for the shortcomings identified. We have already made changes to strengthen reporting and governance processes, and we commit to ongoing learning, accountability and continuous improvement.  The Diocese of Liverpool is dedicated to ensuring that the church is a safe and inclusive environment where concerns can be raised in a culture of accountability, transparency and compassion.

A video message from Bishop Ruth and Sharon Parr

Support Available

We take all safeguarding concerns seriously. If you would like to speak to a member of our safeguarding team, please contact the safeguarding advisor at safeguarding@liverpool.anglican.org.

For more information about safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool go to liverpoolcofe.org/safeguarding-matters/ 

Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces offers free, confidential and independent support to anyone who has been affected by abuse connected to the Church of England, the Church in Wales, or the Catholic Church in England and Wales. Support is available via their helpline on 0300 303 1056 or by emailing safespaces@firstlight.org.uk.

In an emergency, always call 999