Statement Regarding Presbyterian Church Abuse

Victim Support NI is concerned to learn of the serious and significant safeguarding failings within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland that occurred between 2009 and 2022. Our first concern is with those who may have been harmed as a result of these failings. We want to reassure anyone who has experienced harm that they are not to blame.

As a victim support agency, our role is to help those who have been affected by crime even if the individuals do not wish to report it to the PSNI and no matter how long ago it took place. A list of all our services can be found on our website: Victim Support NI | Supporting People Affected By Crime.

If you have been affected by this statement from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and believe our agency can help you, we would encourage you to reach out to us for advice and support. Our services are trauma-informed, confidential, safe, and free. You can contact us from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday on the phone number below. Alternatively, you can email either our Belfast or Foyle offices.

Belfast phone number: 028 9013 0405

Belfast office email: belfast@victimsupportni.org.uk

Foyle office email: foyle@victimsupportni.org.uk

For those living in the Republic of Ireland, you can contact the Crime Victims Helpline on Freephone 116 006 or visit their website: www.crimevictimshelpline.ie

You can avail of further support from the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline in Northern Ireland. Call them on 0808 802 1414 or email them at help@dsahelpline.org

No one should suffer in silence, please be reassured that help and support is available.