Presbyterian Church in Ireland safeguarding crisis: PSNI receive 101 referrals after appeal for victims
The PSNI has received 101 referrals after appealling for victims of abuse in the Presbyterian church to come forward.
Then Moderator Rev Trevor Gribben resigned in November, when an internal review found “serious and significant failings” in central safeguarding functions for children and vulnerable adults from 2009 to 2022.
It emerged that failures included situations where the central church leadership did not respond when people who had suffered harm sought help, and instances where offenders returned to worship in church but were “inadequately monitored”.
The PSNI launched a major investigation, setting up a dedicated team and holding a press conference to appeal for victims to come forward.
Police said previously that discussions with the church began after it raised concerns “following the conviction of an individual in 2024 for child sexual offences” – understood to be a Presbyterian youth leader.
The Charity Commission has also opened a statutory inquiry.
Today the PSNI provided an update on their ongoing investigation.
Detective Chief Superintendent Zoë McKee, Head of Public Protection Branch, confirmed that the investigation remains a priority.
She said: “To date, the Police Service of Northern Ireland has received 101 referrals. These include direct reports from victims, referrals from safeguarding partners and other parties.
"These referrals are being actively progressed as part of the overarching investigative response. This figure changes on a daily basis and all information received is carefully assessed, in line with established investigative, safeguarding and evidential procedures.
“Our focus remains on providing the best possible service to those most affected by the safeguarding failures. We are committed to the investigation of criminality and the protection and safeguarding of those who are or have been victims of crime.
“We are working closely with valued partners and continue to appeal for anyone with information relating to safeguarding concerns that was either known by or reported to the PCI, to tell us what you know.
"It takes huge courage to report and we have specialist detectives dedicated to this enquiry. The team have experience in managing complex and sensitive investigations and have been specifically resourced to ensure the investigation is progressed professionally and efficiently."
In guidance, the PSNI advised that the figure of 101 referrals is provided for information only and is subject to “continual” change.
"The number of reports or enquiries received should not be taken as an indication of the seriousness, validity, or outcome of any individual matter, nor of the overall progress or direction of the inquiry, which remains in the early stage,” it added.
The Presbyterian Moderator Rev Dr Richard Murray, responded: “We are saddened to learn of the figures contained in today’s statement by the PSNI, but welcome the clarity that is being brought with regards to their ongoing criminal investigation.
“When we announced in November our failures in central safeguarding, we called for victims, survivors, and those with concerns, to come forward. To those who have done so, we want to acknowledge their bravery, and apologise again to those who have suffered or been harmed due to our inactions or inadequate responses. For these, we continue to deeply lament.”
Dr Murray urged anyone with relevant information to contact police or the PCI safeguarding team on [email protected]
Police asked for victims to contact them via [email protected], tel 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Police said victims can also contact Victim Support tel 028 9013 0405 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org