Statement regarding Bishop David Oakley

24 June 2026

We understand that today (Wednesday 24 June) Bishop David Oakley has been charged with two counts of rape of a female under 16. This is following an investigation by Staffordshire Police.

We will, of course, continue to actively moniter the situation and current safeguarding arrangements in the dioceses concerned.

We will now wait to hear as to any outcome after the Magistrates’ Court Hearing.

As the independent inspectorate of safeguarding , we will not hesitate to act if we judge anyone to be at risk currently.

We know that this news will be distressing for many people, including survivors of Catholic church-related abuse. Our thoughts are with anyone affected.

Support available:

Safe Spaces is a free national support service which offers confidential, personal, and safe space for anyone who has been abused through their contact with either the Church of England, the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

The service continues to be independent of the Church of England and the Catholic Church in England and Wales and provides trauma-informed information, emotional support and advocacy.

HELPLINE : 0300 303 1056

WEBSITE: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk

ENDS