What is the Redress Church of England scheme?

The Church of England Redress Scheme is a national programme for people who have experienced abuse connected to the Church.

It has been established to provide practical support and recognition, helping survivors move forward and rebuild their lives. The scheme is also intended as a tangible acknowledgement of past safeguarding failures by the Church of England and an expression of genuine remorse.

Survivors were consulted in designing the scheme, helping ensure it is compassionate, fair, and survivor-focused.

Is the scheme open yet?

Not yet.

Although the legislation underpinning the scheme has received Royal Assent, applications cannot be submitted until:

• The Rules accompanying the legislation have been approved by Parliament
• The Church of England and the independent law firm administering the scheme are operationally ready

Once these steps are complete, an opening date will be announced.

How long will the scheme run?

The scheme will operate for five years from the opening date.

The closing date for applications will be clearly communicated, ensuring survivors have time to consider their options and make an application if they wish.

What could redress include?

Redress is tailored to individual needs and may include:

• Financial compensation recognising the harm caused
• Bespoke, non-financial support, such as: Therapy or counselling Spiritual support or prayer (if requested) Acknowledgement of wrongdoing A formal apology

Redress is not about assigning a value to someone’s experience; it is about recognition, accountability, and practical support.

Who decides applications?

Applications will be considered independently by trained assessors, based on the facts of each case and the criteria in the Abuse Redress Measure.

A new independent board will oversee the scheme to ensure it operates fairly, transparently, and consistently. The board will be chaired by someone independent of the Church.

Am I eligible to apply?

Eligibility will be determined through the application process, but there are two main pathways:

1. Close connection – where there is a clear link between a person’s role in the Church and the abuse that occurred.
2. Failure to act – where a responsible person within the Church knew about the risk of abuse but failed to take reasonable steps that could have prevented it.

Each application is considered individually and on its own facts.

What if the abuse happened outside England?

You may still be able to apply.

The scheme is open to anyone who experienced abuse connected to the Church of England, regardless of:

• Where the abuse occurred
• Where you live now

Applications can be submitted from outside the UK, with the same eligibility criteria applying.

What support is available during the application process?

The scheme recognises that applying for redress can be emotionally challenging. Applicants may choose to access:

• Emotional and practical support throughout the application
• Legal advice funding of up to £5,000 to help understand the process and options
• Financial advice support, if needed

At Switalskis, our specialist abuse solicitors provide confidential, trauma-informed guidance to help survivors navigate the scheme safely, explore options, and ensure their voice is heard throughout.

To speak to one of our religious and church abuse claims specialists about your situation in confidence or for more information on the Church of England Redress Scheme, call us on 0800 1380 458, or contact us through the website.