Supporting survivors of abuse in churches

Content warning: This article contains information about responding to reports of abuse which some readers may find triggering. Survivors of abuse in churches face unique challenges when it comes to receiving support. Their experiences teach the church how to respond better and prevent abuse.

We think of churches as safe places, mostly because of their teaching of ‘love thy neighbour’. But history shows abuse can happen in these communities. It’s crucial that the church learns to respond appropriately to abuse. Failure to do so causes further harm to survivors, and puts others at risk.

Types of abuse experienced in churches encompasses various forms, most commonly including spiritual, sexual, physical, emotional and domestic abuse.

Survivors face systemic barriers that must be overcome in order to be heard and supported.

One significant barrier they face is the hierarchical structure of churches. Leaders can be put on pedestals, mistakenly seen as beyond reproach. Survivors report not being believed because of who the perpetrator is, especially if they are in a position of authority. Sometimes that authority leads to coercion and control, both commonly found in cases of spiritual abuse.

Another barrier highlighted by survivors is the misuse of Scriptures to justify and rationalise abuse, particularly sexual abuse.

Culture of cover-up and secrecy

There is a long history of abuse by clergy being covered up and kept secret.

It’s also common for survivors to be asked to keep their abuse a secret, particularly in cases of domestic abuse, in order to maintain an ideal image of Christian couples or families.

Survivors have expressed frustration with churches that prioritise reputation over taking their experiences seriously, and offering support. They often find themselves blamed for the perpetrator’s behaviour or disbelieved, further compounding the trauma they’ve endured.

Survivors of church abuse often find that even when their abuse is recognised, the church lacks the appropriate support. This lack of support can lead to survivors suppressing their trauma, causing further harm and leaving them vulnerable to poor advice.

How can churches do better?

Survivors have shared valuable insights into how faith communities can provide better support. They emphasise the need for advocacy, awareness raising, and tangible support when survivors disclose abuse.

1. Raising awareness. Churches have a responsibility to raise awareness and prioritise safeguarding practices within their whole congregation, not just their safeguarding teams. This includes proactive education, training, and awareness raising. Boldly facing these issues will lead to increased understanding and support for survivors of abuse, and prevention of future abuse.

2. Support for survivors. Survivors need access to helplines and support networks, such as survivor groups or counsellors. It’s crucial to create a safe environment for survivors to report abuse or potential abuse, ensuring their protection and support.

3. Training and resources. In churches, training and resources should be accessible by all, regardless of position or ministry. There should be specific training for those working with children or vulnerable people.

Survivors of abuse have suggested that theological colleges improve teaching around abuse, specifically spiritual and domestic abuse. The training should help individuals spot the signs and know how to support survivors leaving abusive relationships.

Participants from the Truth Project who experienced sexual abuse in religious contexts suggested ‘increasing community and parental knowledge and awareness of child sexual abuse, and ensuring that children have someone to report the abuse to.

Who else can support survivors of abuse? Call thirtyone:eight on 0303 003 1111 – we will do our best to help you; or we’ll signpost you to other organisations who play a crucial role in providing support, raising awareness, and advocating for survivors.

By listening, believing and making space for the voices of people with lived experience of abuse, you can play your part in moving towards a church where every child and adult can feel and be safe.