(Photo: Church of England / Ed Nix)
In a pivotal move for the Church of England’s safeguarding efforts, Bishop Robert Springett of Tewkesbury has been appointed as the new Lead Safeguarding Bishop. His appointment comes as Bishop Joanne Grenfell concludes her term in March 2026.
Bishop Springett will collaborate with Alexander Kubeyinje, the National Director of Safeguarding, alongside the National Safeguarding Team, to advance the Church’s safeguarding initiatives.
With a background as Deputy Lead for Safeguarding and chair of the Theology and Safeguarding Group, Bishop Springett brings substantial experience to his new position. He has been instrumental in guiding the Church’s response to the Makin and Scolding reviews, which critiqued past safeguarding shortcomings and proposed recommendations for progress.
In his new capacity, Bishop Springett will also preside over the National Safeguarding Steering Group, responsible for national safeguarding decisions within the Church.
Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, acknowledged Bishop Springett’s dedication to enhancing safeguarding measures. He stated, “I am grateful to Bishop Robert, who in his work as Deputy Safeguarding Bishop, has worked closely with victims and survivors on our responses to key recommendations. He is clearly committed to seeking change to our safeguarding culture and practice, and I am delighted that he will bring his long experience in ministry to help lead and promote good safeguarding across the Church.”
Expressing his perspective on safeguarding, Bishop Springett remarked that it should be viewed as a chance to foster healthier Church communities. He shared, “Safeguarding should not be seen as a burden, but embraced with joy for the opportunity it offers to serve others. I have found the role of Deputy Safeguarding Bishop deeply rewarding, and I accept this invitation with a profound sense of calling to contribute to the development of healthy cultures across all areas of Church life. Through my involvement in the Scolding and Makin reviews, I have learned a great deal from victims and survivors – wisdom that will continue to shape and inform all that I seek to do in this new role.”
As Bishop Joanne Grenfell transitions to her new role as Deputy Safeguarding Bishop, she will also begin speaking on safeguarding issues in the House of Lords starting January.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
