Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.
Bernie McNally, chair of the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland, emphasized the need for external support to help the Presbyterian Church in Ireland establish a system that ensures the voices of victims and those at risk are properly heard. This call comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen safeguarding measures within the church. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that discussions are continuing with church representatives to put in place effective mechanisms for supporting individuals who wish to report abuse.
The revelations of “serious and significant failings” in the church’s safeguarding practices, spanning from 2009 to 2022, have led to major consequences, including the resignation of the church’s moderator, Rev Trevor Gribben. McNally stressed that the church must implement a system that inspires confidence among its members. She believes this can best be achieved through outside assistance, ensuring that the internal processes are comprehensive and effective.
Following a 2024 conviction for child sexual offences connected to a member of a Presbyterian congregation, the PSNI engaged with the church to address heightened safeguarding concerns. McNally pointed out that once a reliable safeguarding framework is in place, it will be critical for the church to obtain independent verification to confirm the system’s effectiveness and receive expert guidance on handling abuse allegations appropriately. She also noted the importance for congregations to receive reassurance, acknowledging that many people feel anxious about the safety of their children and that misinformation can spread when there is a lack of clear communication.
The church has responded to the situation by launching investigations into the handling of allegations. Rev Dr David Allen, acting clerk of the General Assembly, revealed that the church was notified by the PSNI in May that one of its members was under investigation for offences unrelated to their role within a congregation. Under police advice, the church had to hold off on any action until the criminal investigation was complete, after which internal reviews of processes were undertaken. The inquiry has involved at least three congregations, including those located on both sides of the Irish border.
Regarding the scope of reported cases, the church’s general council convener, Rev David Bruce, indicated that the total number of known cases remains very small, and the church does not yet have a full picture of those affected. He encouraged anyone with concerns to come forward and share their experiences. To facilitate this, a dedicated response line has been set up by the church, aiming to provide a channel for individuals to report abuse and ensure their voices are heard
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha. Blocked by captcha.