06/02/2025
Stage Three of the process has been completed, this is an examination of the assessment made in Stage One and Two, and carried out by senior members of the National Safeguarding Team, NST, plus two independent panel members and one senior lawyer in the NCI Legal Office. This has included decisions determining what action will be taken in respect of individuals, including, where appropriate, disciplinary action. Stage Four is a robust external scrutiny of these decisions by an independent barrister which is making good progress but still underway. This will not be published in time for General Synod this month, the original aim, but it is hoped it will be completed and the outcome published by the end of the month.
Survivors have been informed of this update.
The Safe Spaces Helpline provides free, independent and confidential support to anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church. They can be contacted on 0300 303 1056. https://safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk/.
CALM provides free, confidential and anonymous support for people struggling with their mental health. They can be contacted on 0800 58 58 58, by live chat or WhatsApp. https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support
Samaritans offer free, 24-hour support through their helpline, 116 123. https://www.samaritans.org/