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| Professor Alexis Jay, former chair of Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) |
In response to intense criticism of the Church of England's handling of safeguarding issues and the controversial disbanding of the Independent Safeguarding Board (ISB), the former chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), Professor Alexis Jay, has been appointed to develop proposals for a fully independent safeguarding structure for the Church.
The decision to appoint Professor Alexis Jay came after the Archbishops' Council faced significant backlash for terminating the contracts of ISB Chair Meg Munn, along with board members Jasvinder Sanghera and Steve Reeves. Survivors and safeguarding campaigners expressed outrage at the Council's actions, citing concerns about the Church's commitment to genuine independence and accountability.
Among those who criticized the Church leadership was Meg Munn, who accused the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, of undermining her work as the Independent Chair of the National Safeguarding Panel when she resigned from that position. Steve Reeves also voiced his frustration during the General Synod in York, asserting that the Church's concept of independence differed greatly from the common understanding, more closely resembling a semi-detached relationship. He further emphasized that the Church's use of terms like "trust" and "communication" actually implied obedience and loyalty, rather than genuine independence and openness.
Acknowledging the gravity of recent events, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York expressed regret over the unfolding situation. They clarified that the intention of the ISB was always to develop proposals for appointing a permanent independent Chair and additional board members, and they expressed their commitment to expediting the establishment of independent scrutiny in the Church.
Welcoming the appointment of Professor Jay, the Archbishops affirmed their dedication to achieving fully independent safeguarding oversight in the future. They praised her appointment as a significant step toward ensuring objective, credible, and resilient scrutiny of safeguarding within the Church of England. The Archbishops emphasized that the entire process would be external and independent, inviting the scrutiny and challenge that comes with such independence.
The Archbishops' Council discussed the proposal in detail and reached a unanimous agreement that this appointment is a crucial milestone in their ongoing work to make the Church a safer place for everyone, particularly victims and survivors, children, and vulnerable adults. They reiterated their commitment to act swiftly in reinstating independent oversight of safeguarding practices.
Professor Alexis Jay will be supported in her role by John O'Brien, the former secretary to IICSA. Together, they have been tasked with producing a comprehensive report by the end of the year, outlining recommendations for the establishment of an independent safeguarding scrutiny body for the Church of England.
The proposed recommendations will undergo thorough consideration by the Archbishops' Council, House of Bishops, and General Synod before the implementation process begins.
This crucial step towards establishing an independent safeguarding structure marks a significant milestone in the Church of England's commitment to addressing the serious concerns raised by survivors and campaigners. The proposed independent body aims to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and safety within the Church, fostering an environment where the well-being of all individuals is prioritized and safeguarded.
