Scotland’s first female bishop, Rt Rev Anne Dyer, has begun a phased return to her duties after being suspended in 2022 over bullying allegations.

The Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney faced three complaints, but the Scottish Episcopal Church's independent procurator decided last month not to proceed with a disciplinary tribunal, citing public interest concerns.

Her diocese confirmed she is resuming her role with the support of Bishop Ian Paton and professional HR guidance. Bishop Anne had been expected to return earlier but was on sick leave following a new, undisclosed complaint.

Supporters have called the complaints part of a "campaign" against her, while a separate investigation into diocesan accounts is ongoing.

In a letter published by the Church Times, more than 20 members of the Scottish Episcopal Church backed her return. 

A statement from the Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney said: “A phased return has been arranged, involving professional HR advice, which has allowed Bishop Anne Dyer to return to a number of her duties following the recent conclusion of a canonical complaint process."