The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), has published its investigation report into the Catholic Church in England and Wales. This is based on the main public hearings held in October and November 2019.

Bishop Byrne CO and the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle fully supports the response from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, which can be viewed by clicking on the link below:

Statement regarding the publication of the IICSA report

If you have been affected by this report further support is also available:

1. You can contact the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle Safeguarding Team on 0191 243 3305 or find further contact details at: http://www.rcdhn.org.uk/safeguardingdio/safeguardingcontacts.php

2. ‘Safe Spaces’ is an independent service supporting survivors of church-related abuse. This independent service is run by the charity Victim Support and is free to access via telephone – 0300 303 1056 (answerphone available outside of opening times), email – safespaces@victimsupport.org, or web-chat via www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk.

3. Other organisations offering support can also be found via the Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service at https://www.csas.uk.net/