The Church of England’s National Safeguarding Panel has appointed two new members. The Church of England’s National Safeguarding Panel has appointed two new members. 

The House of Bishops has welcomed and commended the decision of the Government to open places of worship for public worship from 4 July at a virtual meeting held on June 24th. 

The Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, has welcomed the opportunity for people nationally to respond to an independent review on Government engagement with faith communities, which will help to shape relationships now and in the future. 

General Synod voted unanimously today to endorse the Church’s response to the five recommendations from IICSA and urged its national safeguarding steering group to work towards a more fully survivor-centred approach to safeguarding, including arrangements for redress for survivors.

Blog from new lead safeguarding bishop as he takes up the role.

We look forward to the time when we are able to gather again in our church buildings. We are examining what steps we will need to take to do so safely.

Statements from Bishop Stephen, Archbishop Justin and the National Safeguarding Team.

The Bishop of Huddersfield, Jonathan Gibbs was announced as the Church of England’s new lead safeguarding bishop in February 2020, taking over from Bishop Peter Hancock, the Bishop of Bath and Wells. In March 2022 it was announced that Bishop Jonathan was to be the next Bishop of Rochester but as planned would continue as the lead safeguarding bishop until the end of March 2023.

The General Synod today called on the Government to end the ‘cruel’ experience of so-called ‘pauper' funerals in a debate where members heard of the plight of those unable to afford funeral costs.

 

Melissa Caslake, the Church of England’s national director of safeguarding, is moving on to a new role as Chief Officer for Children’s services for Devon County Council.