Bishop Michael has sent a message to all clergy and church leaders in Bath and Wells ahead of Safeguarding Sunday. In it he shared, “My thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with the survivors and victims of the horrific abuse that was perpetrated by John Smyth in England and in Africa, and who were let down by the Church and other institutions that failed to follow up effectively on knowledge of Smyth’s actions.
“A statement issued by some of the survivors included these words: ‘We want to make it clear that it remains our belief that in many, but not all, dioceses up and down the country, there is much excellent local safeguarding work going on.’ I therefore want to acknowledge the hard work of all of you in our churches, schools and other settings who are committed to safeguarding for the benefit of all. Our focus has to be doing safeguarding well every day in Bath and Wells and continuing the mission of our diocese.”
Bishop Michael has shared message for Safeguarding Sunday
Resources
Access the Church of England's Safeguarding Sunday resources.
Go to the Safeguarding section of the diocesan website.
Satements
Read the statement from Bishop Michael in response to the resignation of Archbishop Justin.
Read the Makin Report statement from Bishop Michael and a reflection from diocesan Safeguarding Manager, Ben Goodhind.