United Kingdom: On February 11, 2025, the Church of England's General Synod voted against fully independent safeguarding operations, despite expert advice and appeals from abuse survivors. While most national safeguarding staff will transition to an independent body, the inclusion of local staff was postponed for further consideration. Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and Prof Alexis Jay, who led the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse, both advocated for complete independence to restore trust. Survivors protested outside Church House, demanding fully independent safeguarding processes. This decision follows the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby over a critical abuse report and additional allegations against other church officials. The compromise has been met with disappointment from various stakeholders, including abuse survivors and campaigners, who argue that a fully independent safeguarding system is necessary for meaningful change and trust restoration within the church.
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