Bishop of Lincoln Steps Down Amid Ongoing Safeguarding Complaint Process

Bishop of Lincoln Steps Down Amid Ongoing Investigation

In a significant development within the Church of England, the Rt Rev Stephen Conway has announced his resignation as Bishop of Lincoln, effective from 1 October. His decision comes amid an unresolved complaint process that has kept him suspended for several months.

The Church of England has confirmed that during this interim period, the Rt Rev Dr Nicholas Chamberlain, Bishop of Grantham, will serve as Acting Bishop of Lincoln. The process to appoint a new bishop will be initiated through a Crown Nominations Commission.

Conway faced suspension in February following a complaint lodged with the Church’s National Safeguarding Team. This complaint, which has also been referred to the police, led to his arrest on suspicion of sexual assault, after which he was released on conditional bail.

While the Church of England continues to handle the complaint, no further details have been publicly disclosed. Conway has not made any public statements regarding the allegations against him.

Having assumed the role of Bishop of Lincoln in 2023, Conway had previously acted in the position since 2021 and was formerly the Bishop of Ely. His suspension earlier this year also saw him step down as Visitor to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.

The Diocese of Lincoln has expressed its support for those affected by the ongoing situation, recognizing the period as “deeply unsettling” for all involved.

For those seeking support, the Diocesan Safeguarding Team can be reached via email at safeguarding@lincoln.anglican.org or by phone on 01522 504070. Additionally, Safe Spaces offers a free helpline at 0300 303 1056, and ThirtyOneEight provides support at 0303 003 1111.