A review of the Church’s handling of allegations of serious abuse carried out over a period of 40 years by the late John Smyth has been published. The independent learning lessons review was led by Keith Makin.
The Review describes the experiences of victims and survivors of John Smyth’s abuse, the actions of Church participants to identify good practice and failings in the handling of the allegations relating to Smyth. It answers the questions set out in the Terms of Reference, makes criticisms of organisations and individuals, and reaches decisive conclusions about the lapses and failings that enabled Smyth to commit sickening abuse.
The Church is grateful to all those who have had the courage to contribute to this review – and recognises that this will have been difficult and costly for them. We commend them for their bravery, grace and dignity in speaking out. Our prayers are with everyone affected by this matter.
We will carefully take time to reflect on the review’s findings, the criticisms detailed in the report and the lessons that must be learned by the whole Church.
The Church of England’s statement in response to the review has been published here.
The full review can be read here.
Should anyone wish to share a Safeguarding concern or need support, they can contact our Safeguarding team on 020 7939 9444 (office hours) or 020 3874 6743 (out of hours) or visit the Safe Spaces website.
