A Gesture of Support Rejected: The Children’s Society Turns Down Archbishop’s Donation

The Children’s Society has respectfully declined a donation offered by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Rev. Justin Welby, in his final Christmas message. In his e-card, the Archbishop, who will step down in January, expressed his support for the charity’s work with children affected by abuse and exploitation. However, the charity’s leadership cited concerns that accepting the donation would conflict with its mission to support survivors of child sexual abuse.

Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children’s Society, explained that the charity’s commitment to helping victims of abuse meant it could not accept the gesture. “After careful consideration, we have respectfully decided not to accept the donation offered by the outgoing Archbishop of Canterbury,” Russell said. He emphasized that the charity’s core values, which include supporting child sexual abuse survivors, would not align with receiving this particular donation, especially in light of the recent revelations surrounding the Church of England’s handling of abuse cases.

The Archbishop’s resignation followed a review revealing that barrister John Smyth, linked to decades of abuse involving up to 130 boys, might have faced legal consequences had his actions been reported in 2013. While Smyth was never prosecuted before his death in 2018, the findings left a profound impact on the Church of England. Russell expressed deep concern over the findings, calling for a reset in the Church’s approach to safeguarding and ensuring accountability. The Children’s Society remains focused on its vital work, continuing to support children facing abuse, exploitation, and mental health challenges.