Jonathan Fletcher lessons learnt review continues despite coronavirus outbreak
A lessons learnt review into allegations of spiritual abuse against retired Church of England priest Jonathan Fletcher is continuing in spite of the coronavirus pandemic.
Independent safeguarding charity Thirtyone:eight is making a final call for anyone to come forward with information concerning the accusations against the former vicar of Emmanuel Church, Wimbledon.
The review is being carried out by Thirtyone:eight on behalf of Emmanuel Church after Fletcher was accused of using ice baths, naked massages and beatings on men as a form of spiritual discipline.
The Church of England has already removed Mr Fletcher's permission to officiate after the allegations came to light, and the police were informed but decided against taking any further action.
The review is being led by Dr Lisa Oakley, Chair of the National Working Group for child abuse linked to faith and belief, and chaired by Thirtyone:eight Chief Executive (Safeguarding) ,Justin Humphrey.
It will examine the allegations as well as the safeguarding culture at Emmanuel Church, which Fletcher pastored from 1982 until his retirement in 2012.
Anyone who has not yet made contact but wishes to participate in the review can do so confidentially by emailing JFsafeguardingreview@thirtyoneeight.org. This can include those simply passing relevant information on to Thirtyone:eight.
Mr Humphreys said: "This is the final call for participants being made by the review team. We are urging anyone who has relevant information about the Revd Jonathan Fletcher or the safeguarding culture at Emmanuel Church, Wimbledon to contact us without delay.
"We have worked extremely hard to ensure that this review can be conducted completely independently and with a robust methodology.
"Throughout this process, we wish to be clear that the voices of victims and survivors must be heard; from the development of the scope to the drafting and publication of the report.
"I can commend both Dr Lisa Oakley and Simon Plant as professionals of outstanding expertise and sensitivity in dealing with such matters."
