The Church of England has taken a significant step towards addressing historic safeguarding failures by approving a national redress scheme for survivors of abuse connected to the Church.
In July 2025, the Church’s governing body, the General Synod, gave final approval to the legislation that will create the scheme. This decision marks the end of a long legislative process and clears the way for the scheme to move forward, subject to parliamentary approval and royal assent.
For many survivors, the development represents a long-awaited acknowledgement of the harm caused and a formal route to seek recognition, support, and financial compensation.
Why the Redress Scheme Is Being Introduced
The scheme has been developed as part of the Church of England’s response to decades of criticism and findings relating to safeguarding failures. It aims to provide a structured way for survivors to receive both recognition and practical support.
Rather than focusing solely on financial compensation, the scheme is designed to offer a range of measures to help individuals rebuild their lives. These may include:
- Financial payments reflecting the impact of abuse
- A formal acknowledgement of wrongdoing by the Church
- An apology
- Access to counselling or therapeutic support
- Other forms of personalised support depending on individual circumstances
The intention is to create a survivor-focused process that recognises the profound and lasting harm caused by abuse within Church settings.
Who the Scheme May Apply To
The proposed redress scheme is expected to cover people who experienced abuse connected to the Church of England. This may include abuse carried out by:
- Members of the clergy
- Church employees
- Volunteers
- Individuals acting in a Church role or authority
Different forms of abuse may be considered, including sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional or spiritual abuse, neglect, or other forms of mistreatment linked to the Church.
Eligibility rules and application procedures will be set out in detail once the scheme formally opens.
When the Scheme Will Open
Although the Church has approved the framework for the redress scheme, it is not yet open to applications.
Before claims can begin, the legislation must complete the parliamentary process and the scheme’s administrative systems must be fully established. The opening date will depend on the completion of these steps and the readiness of the organisation appointed to manage applications.
Acknowledging Past Failures
The Church has stated that the redress scheme is intended to acknowledge past safeguarding failures and demonstrate a tangible commitment to supporting survivors.
For many people who experienced abuse within Church environments, the recognition of wrongdoing can be just as important as financial compensation. The scheme therefore aims to combine practical support with formal acknowledgement and accountability.
What Survivors Should Do Now
While the scheme is not yet open, survivors who believe they may be eligible can begin preparing by gathering information about their experiences and any relevant records.
This might include:
- The location where the abuse occurred
- The time period involved
- The role or position held by the person responsible
- Any documentation, reports, or correspondence connected to the events
When the scheme opens, having this information ready may help make the application process smoother.
Support Is Available
Discussing past abuse can be extremely difficult. Survivors considering making a claim are encouraged to seek professional advice or support before starting the process.
Helplines and support organisations can also provide confidential assistance for anyone affected by Church-related abuse.