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.