If you experienced abuse connected to the Church of England, you may be wondering whether the redress scheme applies to you.

These questions are very common. Many survivors worry that what happened doesn’t fit neatly into a definition, happened a long time ago, or was never formally reported. The purpose of the redress scheme is to remove as many of those barriers as possible.

This guide explains, in clear and supportive terms, who the Church of England redress scheme is intended to help.

The scheme is designed for survivors

The Church of England redress scheme is being introduced to support survivors of abuse connected to the Church, especially where that abuse occurred in a position of trust or authority.

It is intended to acknowledge harm, provide support, and offer redress without survivors needing to go through the court system.

Types of abuse covered

The scheme is expected to apply to survivors of:

• Sexual abuse
• Physical abuse
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Spiritual abuse, where authority or belief was used to control, coerce, or harm

Abuse may have involved a single incident or occurred over a longer period of time.

Who the abuse was connected to

You may be eligible if the abuse was connected to:

• A vicar, priest, bishop, or member of the clergy
• A church officer, volunteer, or employee
• Someone acting on behalf of the Church of England
• A church setting or church-run activity

This includes situations where the Church had responsibility, oversight, or authority, even if the individual abuser is no longer alive.

Historic or non-recent abuse

One of the key aims of the redress scheme is to support survivors of historic abuse.

You may still be eligible even if:

• The abuse happened many years or decades ago
• You were a child at the time
• You never reported the abuse to the police or Church authorities
• No action was taken at the time

For many survivors, the impact of abuse only becomes clear later in life. The passage of time does not prevent your experience from being acknowledged.

You do not need traditional proof

Survivors often worry about evidence, especially if records no longer exist or if the abuse was never disclosed.

Redress schemes are less adversarial than court claims. While information will be required, survivors are not expected to meet the same standards of proof as in litigation.

If you are unsure what information might be needed, confidential advice can help explain this gently and clearly.

Can family members apply?

In some circumstances, family members may be able to engage with the scheme, for example:

• Where a survivor has died and their family is seeking recognition of the harm they suffered
• Where a survivor needs support navigating the process
• Where the impact of abuse has affected the wider family

Each situation is different. Sensitive, confidential advice can help clarify what options may be available.

What if I’m not sure I’m eligible?

Many survivors hesitate because they are uncertain whether their experience fits the scheme’s criteria. That uncertainty is completely normal.

If you find yourself asking:

• “Was what happened to me abuse?”
• “Does this still count after all this time?”
• “Am I allowed to ask for help?”

These questions alone are a sign that it may be worth seeking information. Exploring your options does not commit you to making a claim.

Taking the next step, when you’re ready

You do not need to decide anything immediately. Learning about eligibility is simply a way to understand what support may be available to you or your loved one.

Some survivors choose to speak to a specialist solicitor to:

• Understand whether the redress scheme applies
• Explore all available options, including alternatives
• Feel supported and protected throughout the process

Any conversation should be confidential, respectful, and guided by what feels right for you.

The Church of England redress scheme is intended to acknowledge harm and offer support to survivors whose voices were ignored or silenced in the past.

If you are unsure whether you or your family may be eligible, seeking information is a step taken on your own terms. When you are ready you will be met with compassion, care, and understanding.

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.