Past Cases Review 2 (PCR2)

Survivors were not invited to contribute to the 2007-2009 Past Case Review (PCR) and the Church has wanted to ensure a different, trauma informed approach is taken by Past Cases Review 2 (PCR2).

Listening to survivor voices has helped to shape how this review will be conducted. The issuing of this guidance is just part of the ongoing scrutiny work around past cases across the Church, and follows a report in 2018 into the original PCR (2007-2009) which revealed shortcomings both in the process and final result.

Seven dioceses, including the Diocese of Ely, were asked to repeat a full Past Cases Review. The final guidance directs all dioceses on steps that must be taken to independently review all outstanding files.

Bishop Mark Sowerby, chair of the PCR2 Management Board said: “It is the aspiration of the Archbishops’ Council that by the end of the PCR2 process, independent review work will have been carried out in every diocese and church institution within both the letter and the spirit of the protocol and practice guidance. PCR2 is a central part of the church’s proactive approach to identifying where abuse allegations have not been managed appropriately or safely. We are committed to responding well to all survivors of abuse and I pray that the PCR2 is another step to making the Church a safer place for all.”

Documentation

Protocols and practice guidance for the Church of England’s Past Cases Review 2, (PCR2) have been published on the Church of England Website.

Specific PCR documentation is linked below.

• PCR2 Protocol and Practice Guidance
• PCR2 Background and Overview
• PCR2 Full Appendices for Practice Guidance

Resources and Organisations for Care and Support

• Further resources and organisations for Care and Support can be found on this page.

Survivor Review

Having completed the PCR a subgroup of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) audited the files where it was indicated that further action was required. This group included a victim/survivor advocate to represent their voice. The Diocese is keen to demonstrate continuous improvement and development and has, through the DSAP, decided to undertake a review of the identification and support afforded to victims and survivors.

Thirtyone:eight has been commissioned to undertake this review with independence.  Thirtyone:eight are particularly interested in speaking to those who have experienced survivor care through the Diocese of Ely in order to inform the review.

If you would like to express an interest in speaking with the independent reviewer please email Simon Plant at simon.plant@thirtyoneeight.org. If you would like an introduction to Simon through the Diocese of Ely, please contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor, Rebecca Boswell by email at rebecca.boswell@elydiocese.org.

Further information on the Survivor Review can be found here.