Diocese of Bristol and Bristol Cathedral Commended in Independent Safeguarding Audit

The Diocese of Bristol and Bristol Cathedral have been recognised for their exemplary safeguarding practices following an intensive audit conducted by the INEQE Safeguarding Group. Commissioned by the Archbishops’ Council and overseen by the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team (NST), the audit assesses safeguarding arrangements against National Safeguarding Standards.

The Rt Revd Vivienne Faull, Bishop of Bristol, commented on the audit’s findings: “We are pleased to have participated early in this thorough process. The audit highlights the robustness of our safeguarding practices and demonstrates the strong commitment from our senior clergy and leaders to creating a safer Church. It is a privilege to see our efforts recognised and appreciated.”

The audit commended the leadership and dedication of the Bristol Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF) and the Cathedral, noting a “coherent and tangible focus on safeguarding” and a high level of confidence in the embedded safeguarding culture.

The Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol, emphasised the collective effort behind these achievements: “Our dedication to safeguarding is underpinned by our care for the vulnerable, challenging unhealthy power dynamics, as well as honesty and transparency. We aim to ensure the well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, so that every person has the opportunity to flourish in our Church communities.”

The Diocese and the Cathedral welcome the positive conclusions of the audit and remain vigilant in their commitment to ongoing improvement. They pay tribute to the committed Parish Safeguarding Officers across the diocese, acknowledging the challenges faced on the frontline.

Key findings from the audit included strong relationships with statutory partners such as the Local Authority Designated Officers (LADO), and commendation for the Cathedral Safeguarding team, clergy, and music department for their support of Cathedral choristers. Governance and oversight across the DBF, Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group (DSSG), and Cathedral have shown marked improvement, with a growing openness to scrutiny and independent challenge.

Looking forward, the Diocese and Cathedral will enhance safeguarding measures with initiatives such as bi-annual safeguarding cultural audits and expanded unconscious bias training. A joint safeguarding improvement plan, overseen by the DSSG, will guide these efforts.

Bishop Viv concluded: “We are encouraged by this audit but recognise the need to continue our vigilance and strive for continuous improvement. Our commitment to safeguarding extends beyond statutory responsibilities, rooted deeply in our faith and the teachings of Scripture.”

The audit engaged a total of 457 individuals through various methods, including one-to-one discussions, focus groups, online surveys, and confidential interviews. 302 documents were collated and analysed prior to fieldwork. 377 anonymous survey responses were collected from victims and survivors, children and young people, and those worshipping or working within the parishes, the Cathedral, and for the Diocesan Board of Finance. Focus groups engaged with 30 members of staff and volunteers, 9 choristers and 6 chorister parents.