The objectives of PCR2 are that:
- All known safeguarding cases have been appropriately managed and reported to statutory agencies or the police where appropriate.
- The needs of any known victims have been considered and that sources of support have been identified and offered where this is appropriate.
- All identified risks have been assessed and mitigated as far as is reasonably possible.
Throughout 2020 and into the first part of 2021 the Church of England embarked on a process of independent scrutiny which sought to look at the handling by the Church of child protection cases over many years. This entailed an independent scrutiny of the files of clergy and church officers* to identify any persons presenting on-going risks to children and vulnerable adults. The Diocese of Gloucester completed its PCR2 review process during 2020. A big thank you to all clergy and PCCs for your information and support throughout our process.
The national PCR2 report was published in October 2022 and can be read in full on the Church of England website.
The Diocese of Gloucester PCR2 Executive Summary can be read in full here.
Of course, our safeguarding work never stops, so if at any time there are concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the safeguarding team, or know that the helpline below is available:
NSPCC helpline for Children and Adults: 0800 80 20 20
This helpline has been set up for those who have been affected either directly or indirectly by abuse in a church or cathedral setting. Calls will be handled sensitively and confidentially.
Diocese of Gloucester: Supporting people who have been or are experienced abuse
*Church officers definition – All clergy, including those with PTO and clergy such as hospital, school and prison chaplains who hold the Bishop’s license, Readers, licensed lay workers, volunteers and diocesan and parish lay employees and volunteers whose role includes (or has included) direct involvement with children and vulnerable adults.
This is a wide definition; however, the judgement to be made is whether the role has in the past, does currently, or is likely in the future, to provide opportunities for the abuse or neglect of children or vulnerable adults whilst engaged in church organised activities and whether the role involves a relationship of trust.
