Archbishop of York Cleared of Misconduct in Safeguarding Complaint Case

The Archbishop of York Cleared of Misconduct in Safeguarding Case

In a recent development concerning the Church of England’s handling of safeguarding complaints, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has been cleared of any misconduct. This decision comes after a BBC investigation in 2024 scrutinized his actions while he was the Bishop of Chelmsford.

The investigation alleged that Archbishop Cottrell permitted David Tudor, a former priest with serious safeguarding concerns, to continue his role for nine years and later return as an area dean. Tudor has since been barred from ministry following the sexual assault of two teenage girls.

The Church of England’s clergy discipline measure (CDM) president, Sir Stephen Males, reviewed the case and concluded that Archbishop Cottrell “had no power to remove or suspend David Tudor from ministry.” As a result, no disciplinary proceedings will be required against Cottrell.

Sir Stephen’s statement highlighted: “I conclude that although some mistakes were made in the handling of David Tudor’s case, there is no case for the respondent to answer in respect of which a disciplinary tribunal should be requested to adjudicate.”

Despite the clearance, one of Tudor’s victims expressed disappointment, telling the BBC that she was “disgusted and appalled” by the decision, raising concerns about the accountability within the Church of England leadership. The timing of this decision has also been criticized, especially following the recent dismissal of a CDM against the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, just weeks ago.

Reflecting on the decision, Archbishop Cottrell acknowledged, “some things I wish I had done differently.” He expressed regret over the reappointment of Tudor as Area Dean, stating it did not adequately consider the impact on those harmed.

He further explained, “With today’s trauma-informed understanding—which rightly places greater emphasis on listening carefully to survivors and recognizing the lasting harm caused by abuse—I would take a different approach now.”

Archbishop Cottrell emphasized that safeguarding standards within the Church of England have significantly improved since Tudor’s return to ministry in the 1980s. He remains committed to advancing these standards and underscored his dedication to meeting with victims and survivors to learn from their experiences and strengthen safeguarding practices.