This independent report reviews the Church of England’s handling of allegations of abuse by the late John Smyth QC. Commissioned by the Church’s National Safeguarding Team, the review was led by Keith Makin, with Sarah Lawrence assisting. It focuses on the Church’s response, exploring both the actions taken and areas for improvement in safeguarding practices. The objective of the review was to bring to light what the Church knew, or should have known, about allegations made against Smyth, evaluate its responses, and identify steps to help prevent similar abuses in the future. The review also considers the responses of associated organisations.
Throughout the process, the reviewers have actively sought input from survivors and individuals with relevant information.
Read a press release from the publication, and a separate statement from the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Read the report
Finding support
If you or anyone you are in contact with are affected by the publication of this report and want to talk to someone independently please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or visit safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk.
Alternatively, you may wish to contact the diocesan safeguarding team in your area or the National Safeguarding Team at [email protected].
There are also other support services available.
Further information
- The Safeguarding Review Privacy Notice can be found here.
- Read the Terms of Reference.
Contact
Keith Makin can be contacted on the dedicated confidential email address - [email protected] - or by phone at 07713149683.
Keith Makin has an extensive knowledge of and background in safeguarding. He has been a Director of Social Services, a Chief Executive of an independent child care company and the Director of a Local Government Improvement Agency. He has led on a large number of abuse inquiries and reviews for both children and adults.
Sarah Lawrence has worked at a senior level delivering serious child and adult case reviews where there has been abuse or neglect. Sarah’s work includes reviews of non current cases and ensuring that victim and survivor input is central to the review process. Sarah has also delivered work with services to implement changes to improve responses as a result of findings from reviews.