The independent review into Soul Survivor by Fiona Scolding KC and Ben Fullbrook has been published today. The report can be found here: https://www.soulsurvivorwatford.co.uk/
It makes for very sobering reading. As an independent Christian safeguarding charity, we welcome the publication of the report and its recommendations, and we recognise the complexity and challenges involved in drawing it together.
We acknowledge and commend all those who have contributed to the review, especially the brave individuals whose lives have been impacted by the abuse they experienced. We stand with them.
It is clear there is much to be learned. The recommendations made are directed towards the various organisations under the Soul Survivor name, the Church of England and to the Christian church more broadly and we encourage anyone involved in Christian Ministry to read and reflect on what it contains.
The reviewers have sought to bring clarification and discourage speculation. They acknowledge that cultural change will not happen overnight and that views are divided on the way forward. There is still much hurt and pain. The report speaks repeatedly of the need for healing.
All of us should carefully consider any changes that need to be made or actions that may need to be taken because of the findings of this review. Sadly, this is not the first time such behaviours and failures in safeguarding, organisational systems and wider governance have been brought to light.
Soul Survivor church, and the wider Christian church are encouraged to openly seek to discuss and engender debate around the topics that the report raises. In due course, we will seek to support this as much as we can.
The report asks readers to take time to process and reflect and to avoid speculating particularly online. Out of respect and support for the victims and survivors we encourage people to do this and to consider the impact their responses may have.
For anyone impacted by what has happened or what they have read in the report and would like to speak to someone and get advice and support we would encourage you to do so.
There are several sources of support that are available:
- Our own independent Safeguarding Helpline is open to listen to any concerns and to offer help and guidance on 0303 003 11 11, Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, or by email [email protected]
- Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056
- Association of Christian Counsellors (ACC)
- British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
- Samaritans on 116 123