Regulated and Other Activities (Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse) Bill
“My Lords, I rise in support of this significant bill tabled by the noble lady Baroness Grey-Thompson, who has articulated very clearly the reasons why this is an important bill.
As I do so I would first like to recognise, on behalf of the Church of England, our own shocking failings in safeguarding, and take this opportunity to apologise to all victims and survivors of church abuse.
I fully support the introduction of mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse, and other abuse, in all contexts. I note the Government’s commitment to doing so in its upcoming Police and Crime Bill. Today’s debate has given us another opportunity for this important discussion, and I pay tribute to the noble lady Baroness Grey Thompson for bringing forward this bill, but also to members of your lordships house, for your contribution, which I know at times will not be easy.
I have spoken of the need in the Church of England for a reset in safeguarding. This needs to include a genuinely survivor-focused approach, with independence and mandatory reporting at its heart. Proposals will be brought to the Church of England’s General Synod in February, including the introduction of a mandatory reporting requirement in the statutory safeguarding code on managing allegations.
We on these benches would like to continue to work with the Government to support the legislation it brings forward with regard to mandatory reporting. It must include legally-precise definitions of the person to whom the duty applies. This bill would need some amendments to offer that precision, however I strongly support its principle, and stand ready to work with the Government over vital safeguarding reform, which as we have already heard, is long overdue.”