'No child protection issues' reports Manchester Church of England

Following the recent court cases involving historic allegations of child abuse in the Church of England, the Bishop of Manchester appointed an independent lawyer to examine all current clergy files held by his office, which covers Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, to make sure none of them contained outstanding child protection issues.

During June, July and August this process was completed. A spokesperson for the Bishop said: "All clergy files have now been reviewed and we are now confident they contain no outstanding child protection issues concerning our clergy."

The process involved the review of a total of 777 records; 398 clergy currently active and licensed, 173 clergy with Permission to Officiate, 195 clergy retired or redundant and 11 Church Army.

The Diocese operates strict child protection procedures which involve very detailed clergy and volunteer criminal record checks. In addition, every church in the Diocese operates child protection policies with rules designed to provide a safe supervised space for all and limit any risk. They employ a Child Protection adviser who organises training and keeps the Diocese in line with current legislation.

Date article online: 30/08/2007