The Church of England in Parliament

The Bishop of London spoke in support of the Regulated and Other Activities (Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse) Bill at its second reading on 17th January 2025, acknowledging the Church of England’s own background in safeguarding failures and the need for institutions to work towards a survivor centred approach:

The Lord Bishop of London: My Lords, I support this significant Bill tabled by the noble Baroness, Lady Grey-Thompson, who has articulated very clearly why it is important. First, I want to recognise, on behalf of the Church of England, our own shocking failures in safeguarding and take this opportunity to apologise to victims and survivors of Church abuse. I fully support the introduction of mandatory reporting of child sex abuse and of other abuse, in all contexts. I note the Government’s commitment to doing so in their upcoming police and crime Bill. Today’s debate gives us another opportunity for this important discussion. I pay tribute to the noble Baroness, Lady Grey-Thompson, for bringing the Bill forward, and to Members of your Lordships’ House for their contributions, which I know at times will not be easy.