The Survivors Trust acknowledges the significant development within the Church of England, as it welcomes new leadership following the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. This unprecedented event follows Archbishop Welby’s acknowledgment of personal failures in adequately responding to known perpetrators of child sexual abuse operating within the Church.

Survivors of clergy abuse have expressed dismay and frustration at this situation, especially amidst other prominent news stories on the subject. Many have contacted The Survivors Trust, voicing their concerns that this critical issue may not be receiving the attention it deserves.

The Survivors Trust recognises the ongoing scrutiny of interim Archbishop Stephen Cottrell in light of these failings and remains committed to monitoring the Church’s progress in addressing its systemic shortcomings in preventing and responding to abuse. On February 11th, The General Synod, the parliamentary body of the Church, will vote on crucial measures to address these failures. The Survivors Trust will attend to provide support and commentary as needed.

To all survivors of clergy abuse: you are not alone. To all survivors of sexual abuse: No matter the circumstances of the sexual violence or childhood sexual abuse you experienced, it was never your fault. The Survivors Trust is here to support you, and we are tirelessly advocating for improved prevention and response measures.

We encourage survivors to reach out for support.

Together, we will continue to work for a safer future and ensure that survivor voices remain at the heart of this vital conversation.