24/04/2026
Closure of Interim Support Scheme
From the Church of England’s National Director of Safeguarding
Madam, — I would like to clarify certain points in the letter from Andrew Graystone (2 April) relating to the Interim Support Scheme set up a number of years ago to provide immediate help and support to survivors and victims whose life circumstances are significantly affected by the abuse suffered and the response to it.
Over this period, the scheme has evolved and has helped more than 160 people, and positive outcomes have been acknowledged. There will be no gap in support offered, as, while the scheme will close to applications this autumn, a new survivor support fund will continue to provide this immediate, short-term support, sitting alongside the Redress Scheme due to open later in the year.
As with any long-running support programme, learning has emerged along the way. Reviews, including the Peter Spindler review, have highlighted that, while the scheme has been beneficial, in some instances it may also have created unintended dependency. In light of this, the Church of England has decided to redesign the scheme so that it continues to offer meaningful support in ways that are sustainable and appropriate.
Victims and survivors will be involved in the co-production of aspects of the scheme, and their voices will be central to the redesign. The Church of England is clear that it remains committed to supporting victims and survivors and to ensuring that the right help is available, including thoughtful and carefully managed transitions where changes are needed.
Communications sent to those currently receiving support were intended to provide, in precisely the way that Mr Graystone commends, early awareness that changes were being planned. They were not intended to suggest that support would end. Rather, they reflect a commitment to continuing support, which we know survivors welcome, while recognising that the way in which this support is provided may look different in the future.
ALEXANDER KUBEYINJE
Church House
London SW1