At Bolt Burdon Kemp, our specialist abuse team is here to support you with compassion and respect. We have over 35 years of experience supporting survivors of abuse in religious contexts, including the Church of England. We understand the unique complexities of sexual, physical, emotional or spiritual abuse that takes place in a religious environment.
The legislation for the scheme was approved by the Church of England’s General Synod in July 2025 and is due to pass through Parliament, after which the scheme will go live.
We are committed to supporting survivors of abuse seek justice and ensure their voices are heard. Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss your options, or are considering making an application once the scheme is live. We are here to help.
What is the Church of England redress scheme?
The redress scheme is a formal process that is being introduced by the Church of England to offer financial compensation to people who have experienced abuse within the Church or by its representatives.
The scheme has been developed over the past four years in response to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), with over 160 policy decisions taken with survivor input.
A key principle of the scheme is its independent administration, ensuring that decisions are made by trained assessors, free from influence by Church officials or bishops.
What types of abuse are covered?
The scheme covers a wide range of abuse, including:
- Sexual
- Physical
- Emotional and psychological
- Spiritual
- Financial
- Neglect and maltreatment
Who is eligible to apply?
Anyone who has experienced abuse by somebody who had authority to perform a role in the Church of England (such as clergy, staff or volunteers), or in a Church setting, may be eligible. This includes non-recent abuse.
There must also have been a close connection between the perpetrator’s authorised activities in the Church and the abuse which took place. Our expert solicitors will be able to advise you on this from the outset.
Applications can also be made by certain relatives of a person who was abused but has subsequently passed away. Please contact us for further advice about this.
Why choose Bolt Burdon Kemp to help with your redress claim?
Bolt Burdon Kemp has extensive experience supporting survivors of abuse, particularly in religious and institutional settings, as well as experience assisting applicants in redress schemes. Our specialist team offers:
- Expert abuse claims solicitors, with a of success in claims for abuse in religious settings (including the Church of England)
- Trauma-informed support throughout the process, including an early therapy funding initiative to ensure that you get the support you need at the earliest opportunity
- A survivor-led approach that puts your needs first
- Complete nationwide coverage: we represent survivors of abuse which took place anywhere in England or Wales. We will travel to see you at a place of your choosing if you instruct us.
- No win, no fee representation where appropriate
