A NEW independent oversight board is anticipated to be formed to supervise the delivery of the Redress Scheme for survivors of abuse, once the Measure establishing the scheme has received parliamentary approval, a Church House spokesman said this week.
Questions were raised by survivors about oversight within the wake of a serious data breach which had disclosed the e-mail addresses of all those that had registered for updates on the scheme. The law firm accountable for its administration, Kennedys, has taken full responsibility for the breach, which affected almost 200 people (News, 29 August).
“The Terms of Reference for the Redress Board, chaired by Bishop Philip [the Bishop of Winchester, the Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen], were focused on designing the scheme and preparing the laws for Synod,” the spokesman said on Monday. “That work has now concluded, which is why the Board itself isn’t any longer lively.
“In terms of current oversight, the Archbishops’ Council — because the charitable body that commissioned the Scheme — holds temporary lead responsibility while the legislative framework is being finalised. Once the Measure receives parliamentary approval, a recent independent oversight board is anticipated to be established to supervise the Scheme’s delivery.
“Importantly, Bishop Philip has been clear that moral oversight doesn’t end with the Board’s closure. His continued engagement with survivors reflects a commitment to making sure that the Church stays accountable and responsive, not only structurally but ethically. We recognise that trust should be earned through motion, and we’re committed to working with survivors to make sure the Scheme is delivered with integrity, transparency, and care.”
The Church Times understands that further distress has been caused to survivors affected by the breach by the continuing use of the distribution list by recipients, with some using the “reply to all” function to proceed messaging everyone on it. Since the breach, recent email addresses have been added to the list.
Others have welcomed the chance for dialogue. Reactions have revealed the variety of viewpoints amongst survivors, with some expressing frustration at perceived attempts by others to act as representative.
