The Diocese of Winchester acknowledges with deep sadness the horrific abuse perpetrated by John Smyth and the significant pain caused to so many. We welcome the publication of Keith Makin’s independent review and the thorough work that has gone into it, fully endorsing the apology offered by the Church of England’s leaders and committing ourselves to understanding and learning from the lessons for strengthening safeguarding practices across all levels of our Church.
Clearly it is a matter of deep regret and sorrow that John Smyth was able to have any association with our diocese while perpetrating such abhorrent abuse. Bishop Philip will be addressing this matter and the ways it directly impacts our diocese in his address to Diocesan Synod on Thursday evening, which will be published in full. We will also be holding a service of prayer and reflection at St Cross Church, Winchester – more details to follow.
If you or anyone you are in contact with are affected by the publication of this report and want to talk to someone independently, please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or visit safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk. You can also contact the National Safeguarding Team by emailing safeguarding@churchofengland.org and find further sources of support on the Church of England website here.
If anyone has any information or concerns relating to the safety of children, young people or vulnerable adults within the church environment or the wider community they should please share them without delay with the relevant Church or Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser, the Police or the relevant Local Authority Social Care Department. Further details on these organisations can be found on the Safeguarding webpage here.
