Kevin O'Connell, who has campaigned for years to raise awareness of historic child sexual abuse on Caldey Island, is stepping back from his campaigning role after receiving assurances that the changes he fought for will be realised.
O'Connell has dedicated his time to seeking justice for survivors of abuse on the island, off the Pembrokeshire coast. He first visited Caldey Island with his family when he was six years old, and later described how he was sexually abused by monk Father Thaddeus Kotik, who he said had gained his trust as a child.
For years, O'Connell kept his experiences to himself before deciding to speak publicly about what happened to him. In 2018, he began telling his story to challenge those who questioned whether the abuse had taken place and to ensure other survivors were heard.
Safeguarding changes since 2024
A series of safeguarding changes have been introduced since 2024, including enhanced DBS checks, regular safeguarding training, stricter boundaries governing how monks interact with the public and the appointment of an independent safeguarding lead.
After a visit to Caldey Island earlier this month, O'Connell said: "I am so pleased with the progress that has been made. If anything like what happened to me were to happen again on Caldey Island, what gives me hope is that there is now a proper system in place now because there are so many people involved."
Anyone who stays on the island now for more than 10 days is DBS checked. Also, all monks leaving and returning to Caldey Island have to sign in and out.
Independent committee and charity plans
An independent safeguarding committee has been set up to scrutinise the island's safeguarding arrangements, bringing together people with expertise in areas including law, education, policing, health and social work. O'Connell has been invited to join the committee, allowing him to continue contributing to safeguarding work as he steps back from his campaigning role.
The Caldey Island Survivors' campaign (CIS) is now going to be turned into a charity, O'Connell said, in the hope it can continue to support victims of child abuse. He said: "CIS will always be a part of Caldey. Caldey is going to be watched highly from now on. The aim of the charity is to help survivors of historic abuse, but not only that - it will focus on signposting them to counsellors, lawyers, whoever. It's a nice legacy for CIS."
There's going to be a memorial at St Thomas Garden in Tenby. O'Connell has been told he can build what he wants there next year. He said his plan is to put an angel overlooking a child on the site. "It'll be a place for victims to go and reflect, pray, or do whatever they like. I think it's a really good idea," he added.
Reflections and abbey response
Reflecting on his campaigning, O'Connell said: "I'm a fighter. I don't stop. I've spoken to thousands of people over the years. Not one person has been nasty to me. The reason I told my story for the first time in 2018 was because people were saying it never happened. I spoke to Carol and my family, I spoke to Ben Lake MP, and we decided I'd tell my story. I'm living proof it happened. It's been a long fight but it's been well worth it. I still can't get over the fact it's done."
The abbey has commissioned an independent review, published its findings and responses to its recommendations, and sent letters of apology to survivors. Survivors have also been offered ongoing therapeutic support funded by the abbey.
On top of all the other measures being taken to improve safeguarding at Caldey Island, a new board of trustees and a new board of directors were appointed with four lay members. Safeguarding is reported at every board meeting and the boards agreed a truth charter, a duty of candour, which is published on the Caldey Island website. All employees have agreed to a code of conduct. Any breach of the duty to safeguard a child or adult with care and support results in the termination of both the tenancy and/or right to live on the island.
Father Jan said: "We are deeply grateful to Kevin and to all survivors who have had the courage to come forward and share their experiences. Their voices have helped us to understand the painful impact of past failings and have contributed to the safeguarding improvements made in recent years. We recognise that safeguarding requires constant vigilance and continual learning. It was humbling to meet Kevin on Caldey Island recently. We welcome him joining the Independent Safeguarding Committee and continuing this journey together to keep people safe. We remain committed to ensuring that survivor voice continues to be valued, that safeguarding remains at the heart of our work, and that the lessons of the past continue to guide the future of Caldey Island."
