Paragraph 1: Allegations of Sexual Assault and Harassment Against Bishop John Perumbalath
John Perumbalath, the Bishop of Liverpool, faces serious allegations of sexual assault and harassment from two women. The first accuser details several instances of alleged assault occurring between 2019 and 2023, during Perumbalath’s tenure as Bishop of Bradwell in Essex. She describes being forcefully kissed, having her head held tightly, and experiencing unwanted physical contact, including Perumbalath running his hands near her breasts and touching her neck with his mouth. These accounts paint a disturbing picture of alleged misconduct and abuse of power. The woman reported the incidents to both police and church authorities, including Archbishop Stephen Cottrell. While the police investigation concluded without charges due to insufficient evidence, the church’s handling of the complaint raises significant concerns.
Paragraph 2: Church Response and Accusations of a Cover-Up
The Church of England’s response to the allegations against Perumbalath has been met with criticism and accusations of a cover-up. Despite being aware of the allegations before Perumbalath’s enthronement as Bishop of Liverpool, Archbishop Cottrell allowed the ceremony to proceed. The Church maintains it followed safeguarding guidelines and that no ongoing concerns were identified, but the decision not to suspend Perumbalath during the investigation raises questions about the seriousness with which the allegations were treated. A second woman, a fellow bishop within the Church of England, also accused Perumbalath of sexual harassment. However, her formal complaint was dismissed due to exceeding the time limit for filing. This further fuels concerns about the Church’s commitment to addressing issues of sexual misconduct and protecting victims.
Paragraph 3: Perumbalath’s Denial and the Police Investigation
Bishop Perumbalath vehemently denies the allegations, emphasizing that the alleged incidents occurred in public settings with witnesses present. He states he has cooperated fully with both the police and the National Safeguarding Team (NST) investigations and claims to have learned from the process, acknowledging the importance of considering how his actions are perceived. He also asserts his commitment to safeguarding within the Church. The police investigation, which involved interviewing Perumbalath under caution, did not result in charges due to a lack of sufficient evidence. This outcome, however, does not negate the seriousness of the allegations or the distress caused to the accusers.
Paragraph 4: Archbishop Cottrell’s Role and Past Controversies
Archbishop Stephen Cottrell’s involvement in the Perumbalath case raises further concerns due to his own history of handling abuse allegations. He previously faced calls to resign over his management of a case involving a priest accused of sexual abuse during his time as Bishop of Chelmsford. In that instance, Cottrell reportedly allowed the priest to continue working despite being barred from being alone with children and having paid compensation to a victim. This precedent raises questions about Cottrell’s judgment and his commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of potential victims. His handling of the Perumbalath allegations is viewed by some within the Church as another example of a protective culture that shields bishops from accountability.
Paragraph 5: Broader Concerns and Calls for Accountability
The allegations against Bishop Perumbalath and the Church’s response highlight broader concerns about safeguarding within the Church of England. Critics argue that a culture of protecting high-ranking officials often overshadows the needs of victims. Andrew Graystone, an advocate for victims of church abuse, argues that Perumbalath should have been suspended from his duties during the investigation, citing standard practice in other professions such as education and healthcare. The fact that Perumbalath serves on a commission overseeing clergy discipline further underscores the potential conflict of interest and the need for greater transparency and accountability.
Paragraph 6: Implications for the Church of England
The Perumbalath case unfolds against the backdrop of other high-profile scandals within the Church of England, including the resignation of former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby over concerns about his handling of historical abuse cases. These recurring controversies raise serious questions about the Church’s ability to address issues of sexual misconduct effectively and to rebuild trust with its community. Some within the Church worry that another high-profile resignation could irreparably damage the institution’s credibility and further erode public confidence. The calls for greater accountability and transparency highlight the urgent need for systemic change to ensure the safety and well-being of all members and to prevent future instances of abuse.
