In March of this year the INEQE Safeguarding Group was commissioned to conduct an independent review of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s (PCI) governance and safeguarding arrangements. To assist in that review, INEQE has opened a number of online surveys that will assist in that process.
Encouraging participation, PCI’s Moderator, Right Reverend Dr Richard Kerr, and the new Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev Jonathan Boyd, have written to the Church’s 500-plus congregations in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to encourage the widest possible participation. Speaking about the opportunity to take part, Dr Kerr said:
“As we move forward as a Presbyterian family, I welcome the fact that we have got to this stage. For INEQE, listening to and learning from individuals involved in the life, work and ministry of PCI across the island is an important and essential part of the review. This includes both those who have concerns about safeguarding and governance, and those who do not. It is important to hear the voices of as many people as possible.
“Depending on a person’s relationship with the Church, INEQE has produced five different surveys. There is one for those who worship and attend our services, another for safeguarding persons in congregations, members of staff who work for PCI, and another for children and young people. There is also one for victims and survivors, whose voices are so important. Each contribution will be anonymous and their answers will be treated confidentially.”
How to take part in INEQE’s Safeguarding and Governance Review
You can take part in the online surveys here where you will also find further information on the independent review.
All contributions are anonymous, are submitted directly to INEQE (not to PCI), and will be treated confidentially.
It is important to note that the only time an individual’s confidential engagement with the Review team might be breached would be in the event of a disclosure of suspected harm to a child, adult at risk or criminal conduct. In such circumstances the information will only be shared with the appropriate statutory agency.
For children under the age of 13, the survey should be completed with the help and support of a parent or guardian.
The surveys close on 21 September 2026.
Welcoming the development, Rev Jonathan Boyd said:
“As we seek to honour and serve God in the protection of the most vulnerable amongst us, I want to join with the Moderator in strongly encouraging the widest possible participation in this important process. The outcome of this independent review will help to further shape our safeguarding and governance.”
