News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Domestic-abuse-shadow-main_article_image.jpg
CC
UK News

Church of England updates domestic abuse guidance

by Aaron James

The updated guidance covers new laws and definitions regarding abuse which have come in since the policies were last revised in 2006.

For example, they now include abuse in the form of coercive or controlling behaviour.

The information aims to help church staff spot the signs of abuse and support victims, teach them how to appropriately challenge alleged perpetrators, and how to work with statutory bodies like the police and also specialist organisations like charities.

It also contains information on how to address abuse committed by clergy, or abuse suffered by clergy.

The guidance says church staff working with children, young people and vulnerable adults must have domestic abuse training. It will also be provided in marriage preparation and ordinand training.

Bishop of Bath and Wells Rt Rev Peter Hancock, lead bishop on safeguarding, said: "In all its forms domestic abuse is contrary to the will of God and an affront to human dignity.

"All need to play their part in preventing or halting it."

Speaking on Premier's News Hour Mandy Marshall from the Christian charity Restored, which contributed to the updated guidance, said: "We know that those that perpetrate abuse can present really well and really confidently but, actually, at the heart of domestic abuse is the abuse of power and control and we need to be equipped to deal with the signs.

"[It's] a statement really for people coming into the church, saying: this church knows what domestic abuse is, this is how we're dealing with it, and this is what you can expect from us as a church, so that you feel safe to be able to ask for help and support."

Listen to Premier's Alex Williams speaking to Mandy Marshall on the News Hour:

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate