Charity Commission Urges Church of England Trustees to Ensure Safeguarding Compliance Ahead of Synod Debate

The Charity Commission has written to members of the Church of England’s General Synod who serve as trustees of church charities, ahead of a debate on safeguarding reforms. The Synod is set to meet in London from 10 to 14 February to consider two new models for independent safeguarding, following the Makin Review into abuse by John Smyth, which led to the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby.

The proposals aim to ensure safeguarding concerns are not ignored or covered up, with the Commission urging trustees to consider how the proposed changes will help them fulfill their legal duty to protect those who interact with their charities. The Commission, while not regulating the Synod directly, has engaged with Church authorities following the Makin Review, as its decisions affect Anglican church charities.

The Synod will debate two models for safeguarding. One involves transferring safeguarding officers from dioceses, cathedrals, and the Church of England to a new organization. The alternative proposes that diocesan and cathedral officers remain with their current employers, while most national staff move to a new body. Both models would involve safeguarding work being reviewed by an external body.

The Synod will also consider new safeguarding codes of practice, including guidance on managing allegations. Joanne Grenfell, the Church of England’s lead bishop for safeguarding, emphasized that the proposals reflect extensive work and feedback from across the church, including from victims and survivors, and that the Synod’s decision is crucial.

The Commission met with senior Church of England representatives, including the Archbishop of York, earlier this month. Following these discussions, Commission chief executive David Holdsworth wrote to charity trustees, reminding them of their legal responsibility to protect individuals from harm. He encouraged them to evaluate whether the proposals would assist in meeting this duty.

Holdsworth stated that the Makin Review highlighted concerns about the adequacy of previous safeguarding changes, and the Commission remains committed to supporting trustees in fulfilling their responsibilities. The Commission’s engagement continues to ensure that the Church of England charities can meet their legal obligations.

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