The following statement can be attributed to the Acting Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev Rob Saner-Haigh:

“The details contained within the Makin Report make for extremely difficult reading. My prayers are with all those affected by the actions of the late John Smyth. I cannot begin to imagine their pain and anguish. As I have previously said, we should be angry at what has been done to them and wrongly justified in the name of God. We should equally be angry at the failures of the church’s response over so many years and the further harm this causes victims and survivors.

“As Acting Diocesan Bishop, safeguarding is a primary focus for me. I see that, too, across the county through the work of so many others for whom safeguarding is a priority. Whilst safeguarding is about robust protocols and procedures, it is also about creating a culture through which people feel empowered to come forward, to seek help and support and to have confidence that they will be listened to and the appropriate action taken.

“When the Church of England has failed, it is right and proper that, both collectively and individually, we take responsibility. It is in this light that I note the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, after the Makin Report highlighted particular failures of his. Only he can speak to this. However, I think it is right that he has borne responsibility for these failings. As a Church we must hear and respond to the justified hurt and anger, recognise the trust which has been lost, lament the mistakes which have been made, and work with others to do better.

“As the Archbishop prepares to leave office, we recognise his long service and ministry and pray for him and his family. At the same time, we remain committed to doing the hard work over many years to ensure that our intentions, our life and culture are aligned for the good of all, and in service to the God who has a particular concern for those who are vulnerable and who have been hurt and exploited.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

We are conscious that the high-profile nature of safeguarding publications can impact survivors and victims. 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. Alternatively, you can also contact our Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor Joanna Van Lachterop at 07458 016884 or at safeguarding.adviser@carlislediocese.org.uk.

For further information contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Head of Communications, on 07469 153658 or at communications@carlislediocese.org.uk.