Makin Report: Church of England Redress Scheme update

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The Church of England has issued an update on its redress scheme designed to compensate victims of abuse.

Known as the Church of England Redress Scheme, it is being created to provide support to individuals who experienced abuse within the Church.

Makin Report

Initially, the scheme was developed in response to criticism and recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA).

However, the latest update reveals that the Redress Project Board, which includes input from survivors, states that the scheme in now reflecting further on the findings of the Makin Report, published in November 2024.

The board is also reconsidering whether the scheme’s eligibility criteria adequately address negligence by Church office-holders who received safeguarding allegations or disclosures but failed to respond appropriately.

According to the update, the earliest the Redress (Abuse) Measure would be laid before General Synod is July 2025.

If you have suffered abuse within the Church of England or any other religious institution, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Oakwood Solicitors Ltd has a team of experienced solicitors who specialise in claims of this nature and are happy to offer a free initial consultation to advise on your situation. We also operate on a no-win no-fee basis so you will not pay a penny unless your claim is successful.

Below we look at the update issued from the Church of England in full and what steps to take next.

Church of England Redress Scheme update in full

“The legislation to introduce the Redress Scheme for survivors of Church-related abuse will not be laid before General Synod for final approval in February, as previously scheduled, so that final checks can be carried out to ensure its eligibility criteria are robust enough in light of the Makin report.

“The Scheme infrastructure is now in place and the Scheme is ready to receive applications once legislation is complete, following an enormous amount of work by survivors and others over the last three years.

“However, the Church of England is deeply committed to developing a robust and effective Redress Scheme for survivors of Church-related abuse.

“So the Redress Project Board, which is advised by survivors, has decided to reflect further on the findings of the Makin report and to consider whether the Scheme’s eligibility criteria sufficiently recognise negligence of Church office-holders who have received a safeguarding allegation or disclosure and have not responded appropriately.

“This is a serious and important question, and the Redress Project Board will consider carefully the implications of recognising this more fully through the Scheme’s eligibility criteria. This work requires very thorough analysis before the Project Board can decide whether or not it wishes to make any amendments to the current eligibility criteria and is not a guarantee that new or different policy decisions will be taken.

“The Survivor Working Group will continue to play a vital role in shaping the Scheme, providing expert advice and guidance, and two Survivor Working Group representatives will continue to hold voting positions on the Project Board.

“The legislation that will underpin the Scheme requires successful passage through the Church and parliamentary legislative processes before the Scheme can open to applications. The earliest that the Redress (Abuse) Measure would be laid before General Synod is July 2025.”

Molly Frost, Abuse Claims Solicitor at Oakwood Solicitors said:

“It is a shame that the opening of the scheme appears to have been delayed. Many survivors have been waiting many years for redress and recognition .

“It will be interesting to see if and how the Church of England amend the eligibility to take into account the wider issues highlighted in the Makin Report.”

How can I claim even if the scheme is not yet open?

Whilst the Scheme is not yet open for applications, we are happy to advise you now and discuss your potential eligibility to claim compensation under the scheme.

We can get your case ready so as soon as the scheme opens we can put your application in promptly.

I suffered abuse within the Church but not the Church of England – Can I still claim?

This scheme will specifically be for those who suffered abuse within the Anglican Church.

If you have suffered abuse within another religious organisation or setting, you may still be able to claim compensation and you can contact our specialist team for advice.

What is the Makin Report?

The update has been issued in relation to the findings of the Makin Report published in November 2024. The Makin is an independent review commissioned by the Church of England to examine its handling of abuse allegations against John Smyth QC.

Smyth, a barrister and prominent figure in Christian circles, was found to have perpetrated severe abuse against numerous boys and young men during the 1970s and 1980s, both in the UK and Africa.

The report criticised the Church of England for its inadequate response to allegations against Smyth, highlighting a failure to act appropriately on abuse disclosures and a tendency to prioritize institutional reputation over victim welfare.

It was revealed that there was an “active cover-up” to conceal Smyth’s abusive actions, allowing him to continue his misconduct for decades.

Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?

At Oakwood Solicitors Ltd, our team of seasoned legal experts are here to guide you through the best course of action for pursuing your claim.

With extensive experience and knowledge handling sensitive cases, we are committed to providing the support you need for a successful outcome.

We work on a No-Win, No-Fee basis, so you won’t pay any fees unless your claim is successful.

You will have a dedicated advisor who will manage your claim from start to finish, providing regular updates to ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.