Church of England Accepts Most Recommendations from Final Makin Review

Church of England Implements Safeguarding Measures Following Makin Review

The Church of England has unveiled its final report concerning the recommendations from the Makin Review, highlighting efforts to enhance safeguarding practices.

The Makin Review, initially released in late 2024, scrutinized the Church’s handling of abuse allegations against the deceased John Smyth. Smyth, who passed away in 2018, was implicated in longstanding abuse cases across Britain and Africa. The review concluded that former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, had inadequately addressed these allegations upon becoming aware of them.

Following the review’s findings, Welby resigned and acknowledged his failure in ensuring a thorough investigation of the “awful tragedy.” Although he accepted some of the review’s conclusions, Welby disputed certain aspects, asserting that the Church had reported the allegations to authorities and was advised by police not to pursue further investigations to avoid hindering their inquiries.

The Church’s final report affirms the acceptance of 24 out of 27 recommendations from the Independent Lessons Learned Review in full, with the remaining three being partially adopted.

Significant advancements have been noted, including the introduction of mandatory Safeguarding Codes of Practice and enhanced disciplinary measures for clergy. Additionally, independent safeguarding audits have been implemented, protections for whistleblowers strengthened, and procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns to statutory authorities clarified.

However, the report indicates that further work is necessary, particularly in managing safeguarding in international contexts and providing consistent support to abuse survivors.

The Rt Rev Robert Springett, lead Safeguarding Bishop for the Church of England, emphasized in the report’s introduction, “This report is, first and foremost, about people – all who have experienced abuse within the Church of England. We write with humility, and with a complete and unreserved belief in those who have come forward.

“This report is clear that safeguarding must always take precedence over institutional loyalty. Ultimately, what is needed is culture change: deep, sustained, and reaching to every level of the Church, from its national structures to every parish.”