14/07/2026
The final day of Synod began with debate on a Private Member’s motion on support for children and young people in the care system. Introducing the debate Billy-Jo O’Leary spoke of her own experience growing up in care. An amendment to include support for those who care for looked after children was approved in the motion. The motion was carried with unanimous support from members with 282 votes and no votes against or abstentions.
Synod then turned to legislative business, approving amendments to the Abuse (Redress) Rules agreed at Synod last July to make a number of practical and procedural improvements. The rules detail the operational procedures, including application processes, assessment criteria, appeals mechanisms, and data protection protocols. The Redress Scheme is expected to open later this year.
In the final debate of this quinquennium Synod discussed a Private Member’s motion that called on Church Commissioners to protect nature on 30 per cent of their land. An amendment by the Bishop of Norwich, the lead Bishop for environment, was accepted by Synod in a counted vote by Houses. The wording can be found in the order paper. The amended motion was carried by a show of hands.
- Amendment 58
- House of Bishops: 20 for; 0 against; 0 abstentions
- House of Clergy: 74for; 35 against; 3 abstentions
- House of Laity: 104 for; 27 against; 6 abstentions
The final meeting of General Synod, before elections take place in the Autumn, ended with a Eucharist at which the Archbishop of York preached.
Synod was formally dissolved with the reading of writs from His Majesty the King.