The two-week safeguarding audit visit to the diocese by INEQE, the independent auditors appointed to evaluate the quality of safeguarding practice in all Church of England dioceses across the country, has come to an end today (3 April 2025).
Bishop Michael says, “I want to thank everyone who engaged with our Safeguarding Audit, which reflects to the commitment to safeguarding that I see across our diocese. I am delighted to let you know that our initial feedback from the auditors has been positive and constructive.”
Ben Goodhind, Safeguarding Manager for the diocese says, “I would like to reiterate Bishop Michael’s thanks to everyone who has taken part in the audit, either by completing questionnaires, attending interviews or focus groups.
“This crucial input from survivors, volunteers, staff and our clergy will help to shape our future work. While it is of course very pleasing to have positive initial feedback, there is always more that we can do and this report will help us to continue to modernise and improve safeguarding in Bath and Wells. This is our first safeguarding audit for eight years and the first opportunity to measure our practice since the recommendations issued following the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) and the Past Case Review 2. It has also taken place at a time when past safeguarding failures have impacted in the confidence in safeguarding in a church setting.
“My hope is that when the audit results are published in due course, they will help will reassure people that contemporary church safeguarding in Bath and Wells is working well and that we are committed to continually improving our safeguarding practice.”