Church of England Redress Scheme: Latest September 2026 News, Opening Date and Survivor Support
Published: 25 September 2026
The Church of England Redress Scheme is moving closer to opening, with several important developments announced during September 2026. These include the appointment of an independent appeals judge and the introduction of a new Survivor Support Fund.
The £150 million scheme is intended to provide financial compensation and other forms of redress to eligible survivors of Church-related abuse. However, as of 25 September 2026, the main scheme has not yet opened for applications.
Latest news: Independent appeals judge appointed
On 23 September 2026, the Church of England announced the appointment of Her Honour Heather Baucher as the Redress Scheme’s Appeal Authority. The appointment establishes an independent route for eligible appeals against decisions made under the scheme.
The Church of England
This is an important development for applicants who may wish to challenge a decision about their redress application.
New Survivor Support Fund launches 1 October 2026
The Church of England has announced that its new Survivor Support Fund will launch on 1 October 2026, replacing the existing Interim Support Scheme for new applications.
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The fund is designed to provide short-term assistance to eligible survivors of Church-related abuse while the main Redress Scheme is being prepared.
Importantly, the Survivor Support Fund is separate from the main Redress Scheme. Its launch does not mean that applications for the main compensation scheme have opened.
When will the Church of England Redress Scheme open?
The Church of England continues to anticipate opening the main Redress Scheme in late 2026. However, as of 25 September, a confirmed opening date has not been announced.
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Survivors can follow official developments and register for updates on the
official Redress Scheme website.
Who may be eligible for compensation?
The scheme is intended for eligible survivors of abuse connected to the Church of England. This may include people who experienced sexual, physical, emotional or other forms of abuse within the scope of the scheme.
Historical abuse may also fall within its scope. Eligibility will depend on the detailed scheme rules and each applicant’s individual circumstances.
How much compensation could survivors receive?
The £150 million Redress Scheme is designed to provide financial and non-financial redress. Individual payments will depend on the nature of the abuse, its impact and the scheme’s assessment rules.
Non-financial redress may include acknowledgement of harm, apologies and therapeutic support where appropriate.
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Do you need a solicitor to apply?
No. Applying directly to the Church of England Redress Scheme is free, and you do not need to instruct a solicitor.
Some survivors may nevertheless prefer independent legal advice or representation. You are free to choose your own solicitor or proceed without one. If you decide to obtain representation, any fees should be clearly explained before you agree to proceed.
What should you do while waiting?
You can register for official updates, familiarise yourself with the published eligibility requirements and consider whether you would prefer to apply directly or seek independent legal advice.
If you need immediate assistance, you can also explore the support arrangements available through the Church of England.
How Church of England Claim can help
Church of England Claim provides information about the Redress Scheme and can help people explore the option of being introduced to an independent solicitor.
You can make an initial enquiry without having to provide a detailed account of your experiences. There is no obligation to instruct a solicitor.
Our service is independent of the Church of England, the Redress Scheme and its administrator.
Visit Church of England Claim to find out more.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Church of England Redress Scheme open?
No. As of 25 September 2026, the main scheme has not yet opened. It is anticipated to launch later in 2026.
Is the Survivor Support Fund the same as the Redress Scheme?
No. The support fund is a separate arrangement intended to provide short-term assistance to eligible survivors.
Can I apply without a solicitor?
Yes. The official application process is free, and legal representation is optional.
Can historical abuse qualify?
Historical abuse may fall within the scheme’s scope, depending on its rules and the individual circumstances.
Where can I find official information?
Visit the
Redress Scheme website or the
Church of England safeguarding website.
Independent support is available through
Safe Spaces.Church of England Claim is an independent information and introduction service. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Church of England or the Redress Scheme.