Listening to and Caring for People Who Have Suffered Abuse
The Church is committed to caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons and to continuing to learn how to respond in a supportive and healing way to the needs of those who have suffered abuse. Those who have suffered abuse within the Church will receive a compassionate response, be listened to and be taken seriously.
Safe Spaces
Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse in relation to the Church of England, the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church of England and Wales. This could be abuse by someone who holds any role at the church or is linked to participating in a church-led activity or group. Although the churches have funded the service, it is run independently by the charity Victim Support, who are one of the leading charities providing specialist support to survivors of abuse in England and Wales.
If you have been affected, however long ago, Safe Spaces can provide you with support. You do not have to have told the police or the church authorities, and you do not have to still be involved with the church. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless you or someone else is in immediate danger
Tel: 0300 303 1056
Email: safespaces@victimsupport.org.uk
Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk including a link to a live chat service
Parish churches can download leaflets to promote Safe Spaces here
Survivors Voices
The Church of England National Safeguarding Team has worked with Survivors Voices to consult survivors on how to improve practice in responding well to survivors of abuse. Download the published report here.