The Bishop’s of England and Wales have set aside the Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter as a Day of Prayer for Victims and Survivors of Abuse. This is a day of prayer for those who have been abused, during a season of hope and new life.
This year’s focus is on communities who have been directly affected by allegations or convictions related to abuse – especially, but not exclusively, within the Church. This may be associated with clergy, a teacher in the local schools, a leader of a Catholic group or other person or group whose investigation or conviction is likely to affect the wider community.
General prayer for a culture of openness and loving support for survivors of abuse
We pray for those who have come forward to speak of the abuse they have suffered,
and for those who are not yet able to.
May the Spirit help us to offer a response that is rooted in the love of Christ
and to be a community in which they can continue to feel believed and safe
as the search for truth and justice unfolds.
God of justice and healing;
Hear our prayer.
If you have experienced abuse and would like to speak to someone about this please contact:
The Safeguarding Office – We are here to listen to you and take any concerns that you share with us seriously. Please call the office on 01364 645430 between Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 4:30pm for a confidential conversation.
Safe Spaces – A free and independent support service for anyone who has experienced abuse, however long ago, in relation to the Church of England, the Church in Wales or the Catholic Church of England and Wales.
Telephone – 0300 303 1056 (Monday – Friday 9:00am – 9:00pm, Saturday 9:00am – 1:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm – 5:00pm.)
E-mail: safespaces@firstlight.org.uk
You can also make a referral via their website: https://safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk/referral/
You can also visit the Safeguarding pages of the diocesan website to find contact details for local and national services that can support you: https://www.plymouth-diocese.org.uk/the-diocese/how-we-work/vicariate-for-safeguarding-and-pastoral-care/help-and-support-for-victims-and-survivors/