The action plan in response to the independent audit undertaken by INEQE has been published today (Thursday 11 June).
The action plan follows the structure of the Church of England National Safeguarding Standards (NSS) and outlines the practical actions being undertaken by the Diocese to address the recommendations for the Diocese from the INEQE Safeguarding Audit 2025. The Cathedral Chapter have oversight and management of recommendations made with regards to Peterborough Cathedral.
This plan is owned by the Diocese of Peterborough Senior Leadership Team and was produced by the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer with their input. The trustees of the Diocesan Board of Finance, and the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) will have at least twice yearly oversight of the plan. Other relevant groups and individuals will be updated and consulted as required.
The published INEQE report acknowledged significant challenges in ensuring safeguarding is fully fit for purpose but also noted that the Diocese is ‘resolutely on a path of improvement’. INEQE found ‘an emerging culture of care and professionalism’ across the Diocese, marked by an overwhelming majority of the worshipping community reporting improvements in safeguarding arrangements and a growing confidence in raising concerns.
Some of the recommendations have already been put into place, others will need time and reflection to make sure they are implemented well. The Diocese remains committed to our ongoing journey of safeguarding improvement, making progress with pace despite significant changes in staffing in senior positions over the last six months, acknowledging where work needs to be done, and listening well to victims and survivors.
The action plan is available here.
If you have been affected by this and would like confidential, independent, support, please contact the Safe Spaces helpline. Safe Spaces is a free and independent support service providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused through their relationship with the Church of England, Catholic Church of England and Wales or the church in Wales.
The Diocesan Safeguarding team are committed to responding to safeguarding concerns, providing advice if you are not sure what to do, and supporting victims and survivors in an efficient and effective way. They can be contacted at: safeguarding@peterborough-diocese.org.uk