Further to statements issued by the Police and elsewhere by the Church of England, including the Archbishop of York’s office and Chester Diocese, the following statement has been made today by the Diocesan Bishop of The Church of England in Lancashire, Rt Rev. Julian Henderson …
“The Church of England has been supporting the police on an investigation into allegations of sexual offences against children and adults by the late Bishop Hubert Victor Whitsey.
“The allegations date from 1974 onwards when he was Bishop of Chester and while he was retired and living in Blackburn Diocese.
“I would like to echo the heartfelt apology offered today, by the Archbishop of York and the Bishop of Chester, to the survivors who have been brave enough to come forward and tell their story of abuse by a senior figure in the Church, who was in a position of power and authority.
“We are offering pastoral support to all those who have come forward and are continuing to hold them all in our prayers.
“Anyone affected by today’s news should call the CCPAS helpline on 0303 003 11 11 (choose option 2 when dialling). CCPAS can offer help and signpost to church-related support and information or alternatively call the NSPCC 0808 800 5000. Anyone with further information on the case should go direct to the police on 101.”
Ronnie Semley
October 17, 2017