Note from Nazir

8 August 2024

I hope some of you may be getting a break over the summer, and for those who are working through, thank you.

Back in June I introduced one of our survivor panel members, Rebecca. Rebecca encouraged anyone who had information for the CSSA audit team about experiences of abuse or concerns about safeguarding.  Since then, we have continued our scheduled audits in Menevia, Leeds and Clifton. Thank you to those dioceses for their courage and transparency in being part of this.

It is with mixed emotions, then, that I can report that the audit team inform me this call for information has elicited responses. This means that people have come forward with information for us, whatever their role or connection with the church. I say mixed emotions. I am glad that more and more people are feeling confidence in the CSSA, that their concerns will be acted on. But any safeguarding concern is, of course, one too many.

The intelligence we receive is wide ranging and confidential. But it is extremely valuable, whatever the nature of it. We act with professional curiosity throughout. And it will all go towards our ultimate judgement of dioceses in their audits. This in turn helps build a safer church for communities across England and Wales.

If you had the courage to come forward and offer information, whatever your role, and whatever you shared, I would like to personally thank you.

The team are currently working on Lancaster Diocese – if you have any information you would like to share about safeguarding in this Diocese – please see HERE.

I leave the final word with Rebecca Mills, survivor of abuse, and member the CSSA survivor reference panel.

Nazir Afzal, OBE, Chair 

From Rebecca Mills:

“I personally would like to thank anyone who has come forward and spoken to the CSSA.  I know how much strength and courage it takes. You are brave and valued. 

“In making the choice to speak out you are helping to make change, to create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected. Please continue to come forward, as the CSSA can never have enough information. It will help move forward and create the best recommendations for every church community audited.”