Published in September 2025, Safeguarding the Institution: How the culture of the Church of England facilitates abuse is a critical examination of the systemic and cultural factors that have contributed to safeguarding failures within the Church of England.

About the Book

Safeguarding the Institution delves deep into the complex web of cultural practices, institutional behaviours, and systemic issues that have allowed abuse to persist within the Church of England. Through careful analysis and first-hand experience, the book exposes how organisational culture too often prioritises institutional preservation over the protection of the vulnerable. Hard hitting and controversial, Safeguarding the Institution is also thoroughly positive setting out lots of practical ways in which the Church of England can change to become a safer church.

The Author

Stephen Kuhrt is Vicar of the Parish of New Malden and Coombe in Southwark Diocese. This includes two churches: Christ Church and St John’s. Stephen brings unique insight to this crucial topic, drawing from extensive experience of a lifetime in the Church of England and over twenty years of parish ministry. His perspective has also been shaped by his direct engagement with safeguarding issues and the personal cost of advocating for change within the Church of England.

Beyond the Book

This website serves as both a companion to the book and an ongoing platform for discussion about safeguarding in the Church of England and other churches. Here you will find:

  • Regular articles examining safeguarding issues in religious institutions by Stephen Kuhrt and other writers.
  • Analysis of how organisational culture in the church impacts upon safeguarding
  • Exploration of the systemic changes needed in church structures
  • Updates on current developments in church safeguarding

Coming Soon

  • Suggestions of practical changes that bishops in the Church of England can immediately implement if they are serious about playing their role in bringing about positive cultural change within it.
  • Articles by other campaigners outlining their priorities for change within the Church of England to reform its safeguarding.

Stay Informed

As this site develops, it will become a resource hub for those interested in understanding and addressing the cultural dimensions of improving safeguarding in churches. Whether you’re a church leader, safeguarding professional, or concerned individual, you’ll find valuable insights into these critical issues.

Order Safeguarding the Institution: How the Culture of the Church of England facilitates abuse here.