The Diocese of St Albans has published its action plan in response to the Independent Review into Soul Survivor by Fiona Scolding KC outlining changes to be implemented within their diocese as well as recommendations for the wider Church of England.
Bishop Michael, who was previously the Bishop of Hertford in the Diocese of St Albans, said,
"I would like to add my apology to that made by the Diocese of St Albans following the publication of Fiona Scolding’s review into the abuse that happened at Soul Survivor, Watford.
"As a church we have a responsibility to protect all those in our care. This should not be simply a matter of policy but a deep moral and spiritual responsibility. I want to extend my apology to those victims who were failed by what happened at Soul Survivor.
"While the Scolding Review acknowledges that ‘no concerns were raised during any of the reviews with regard to safeguarding or the leadership of Mike Pilavachi, we must not be complacent. We must confront our failings and be attentive to the learning needed so that the voices of those who have had the courage to come forward are heard and acted on so that our churches can be safer.
"We must ensure that safeguarding is embedded into everything we do and I remain committed to doing that."