THE terms of reference of the group overseeing the implementation of the Makin recommendations were published yesterday.
Keith Makin made 27 specific recommendations in his report, published last November (News, 15 November 2024), on the abuse by John Smyth.
Action has already been taken in response to the report, including the initiation of disciplinary measures against among the people criticised by Mr Makin for his or her handling of disclosures (News, 28 February).
The latest Task and Finish group is being chaired by the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Rt Revd Robert Springett, who said: “The Makin Report is a tough and difficult read, detailing the impact of Smyth’s predatory abuse. . . Our response must not be nearly policy change but about fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, theological literacy, and compassion inside the Church.
“While we cannot undo the past, we must make sure the wellbeing of victims and survivors, particularly those affected by John Smyth. Their courage in coming forward has been instrumental in highlighting these issues, and we’re dedicated to making sure their voices are heard,” Bishop Springett, who’s a deputy lead bishop for safeguarding, said.
The group includes 4 survivors of church-related abuse, chosen through a recruitment process that prioritised those that had been abused by Smyth. The group’s membership also includes two diocesan safeguarding officers, and three safeguarding professionals who usually are not employed by the C of E. One of the external members is the independent chair, Allan Harder, of each York’s and Carlisle’s Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panels
The Bishop of Ebbsfleet, Dr Rob Munro, is the ultimate member of the group. Dr Munro provides episcopal ministry to conservative Evangelical parishes whose PCCs have passed resolutions on the ministry of girls. In an announcement after the publication of the Makin report, Dr Munro drew attention to its finding that Smyth was capable of “hide in plain sight”, partly due to his “direct association with a lot of different evangelical organisations”.
The Task and Finish group had its first meeting on 9 May, and is to satisfy commonly over the subsequent 14 months, updating the General Synod next February and giving its final advice to the Synod in July 2026, a press release says.
The group’s tasks, as set out within the terms of reference, include identifying which body is best placed to implement each suggestion, and advising the National Safeguarding Steering Group on “whether each relevant suggestion ought to be corporately accepted by the Church of England, either partly or in full”.
