Abuse in the Church and abuse of positions of power – Raising Awareness this Christmas

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As part of our series of articles throughout the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence (November 25th – December 10th), we take a wider look at abuse – both within the church and also abuse of positions of power.

The 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence presents us with an opportunity to talk about abuse in the wider world. In this case, we wish to shed more light on both abuse in the Church, as well as abuse of positions of power.

What does Church-related abuse mean?

Abuse in the Church, or Church-related abuse, covers any form of harm or mistreatment occurring within a church setting. This could be as a result of a relationship with the church, involving clergy, staff, volunteers or other members of the church community.

Abuse in the Church

What sort of abuse can occur in the Church?

Unfortunately, abuse in an institution as large and established as the Church can cover just about any area imaginable. Here are the key areas, as well as some you may not have considered:

Coercive Control

Coercive control can cover a number of methods used to break down an individual’s personal autonomy. This can include controlling behaviour, isolation, threats, or surveillance disguised as religious or moral authority.

Cover-ups and Mishandling of Disclosures

When reports of abuse are ignored, hidden or disregarded by church authorities, resulting in additional trauma and preventing an individual from experiencing justice and closure.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Manipulation, intimidation, gaslighting or cruelty that undermines mental wellbeing or personal self-worth.

Financial Abuse

This is when personal finances are abused, whether it be pressuring for donations, misuse of church funds, or manipulation of a vulnerable individual to make gains financially.

Neglect or Institutional Abuse

Failing to protect an individual from harm within the church or a church setting like a school, care home or outreach programme.

Physical Abuse

Hitting, neglect, restraint, or any other form of physical abuse, force or violence.

Sexual Abuse

Such as unwanted sexual contact, sexual contact with a minor, exploitation or harassment.

Spiritual Abuse

Such as misuse of religious beliefs or scripture, using it as an authority to enforce control, shame or silence of an individual. Can also include coercion under the disguise of religious guidance.

Abuse of Power – What does it mean?

Abuse of power is when an individual or individuals in a position of authority use their status to harass, bully, manipulate, punish, or otherwise physically or emotionally bring harm to those with less power or authority.

What is the connection between Abuse in the Church and Abuse of power?

As briefly touched upon in ‘Spiritual Abuse’ in the section above, abuse of power can go hand-in-hand with abuse in the Church, as the church is a long established, vast, and generally respected organisation which interacts with all ages and walks of life.

As well as such wide reaching connections being used for good, they can also be abused by those so inclined for individual gain.

When can an abuse of power occur?

A abuse of power can occur in any position where a hierarchy is in place, which is pretty much every aspect of life from family relationships and workplaces, all the way up to educational institutions and political and religious organisations.

Anyone in a position of authority over another can exploit their status to cause harm, or to manipulate an individual with less authority than the perpetrator.

Can I make a compensation claim for abuse?

An individual may be eligible for an award of compensation if they sustain a criminal injury directly attributable to being a direct victim of a crime of violence committed in a relevant place.

What is a violent crime, or a crime of violence?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) defines a ‘Crime of Violence’ as a crime which, by intention or recklessness, involves any of the following:

A physical attack
Any other act (or failure to act) of a violent nature which causes physical injury to a person
A threat against a person causing fear of immediate violence
Sexual assault
Arson

What is a relevant place?

A relevant place means Great Britain. However, there are also some further niche areas that fall under the CICA’s definition. This includes a British-controlled aircraft, a British-controlled hovercraft, or a lighthouse off the coast of Great Britain.

Act now and end the cycle

The 16 Days of Action campaign is a reminder that we all have a role to play in ending the cycle of domestic violence, but this can be extended to other form of abuse.

Raise Awareness: Use your voice to highlight potential abuse and the risk factors.
Support Services: Donate or do volunteer work organisations that help survivors of physical and sexual abuse or other crimes of violence.
Be a Listener: If someone confides in you, believe them, and help them access professional resources.

Let’s work together to ensure that the Christmas season is a time of safety, not fear, for everyone in our communities.

Are there any charities who can help me through a difficult time?

There are many charities and organisations out there who can assist with anything from trauma to mental health to simply offering a listening ear. Here are just a few:

Mind: 0300 123 3393
Samaritans: 116 123
The Survivors Trust: 0808 801 0818

In an absolute emergency and failing all else, contact the emergency services by calling 999.