The Church of England has uncovered hundreds of new cases of abuse against children and vulnerable adults by clergy, officers, and volunteers, according to a report published on Wednesday. The review identified 383 cases requiring further attention, marking the Church's most extensive examination of past abuse.
The report is highly critical of a culture within the Church that it says is still not adequately addressing abuse. It cites victim-blaming, deference to those in power, inertia, and inaction in dealing with allegations. The archbishops of Canterbury and York apologised, expressing 'profound shame' at the findings.
Of the 383 cases, 168 involve children and 149 involve vulnerable adults. The alleged perpetrators include 242 clergy, 53 Church officers, and 41 volunteers, many of whom no longer hold positions. However, some identities were not recorded. The cases range from information-sharing errors to matters that should have been referred to police.
The review follows criticism of a 2010 review that found only 13 new cases. Survivors have voiced frustration, with one telling the BBC she felt ignored despite being told her case was in the 'cause for concern' category. The report lists 26 recommendations, including a charter to ensure children's voices are heard, but does not propose a major overhaul of existing safeguarding processes.
In a joint statement, the archbishops said: 'There are no possible excuses... We sincerely apologise for our failures and want to reach out to those who are still suffering.' They added: 'We are so sorry that this ever happened. It was not your fault and you are not to blame.'
