An ex-President of the Methodist Conference has been banned from preaching in the Methodist Church for at least twelve months.
It follows the conclusion of an investigation into Rev Graham Thompson by the Methodist Church after concerns were raised about his safeguarding leadership as chair of district.
In a statement, the Church said :
“The Safeguarding Committee has concluded that Mr Thompson should not take part in any front-facing, preaching and/or pastoral roles within the Methodist Church for a period of at least 12 months, during which time he will undertake additional safeguarding training.
“The Methodist Church is profoundly sorry for those who have been affected where good safeguarding practice has not been upheld in relation to both individuals and the wider church community.
“The Methodist Church’s safeguarding responsibilities are at the core of our mission. We are determined to make our churches a place of safety for all and will continue to do all we can to support survivors, act when we receive disclosures and respond appropriately to allegations about the behaviour of individuals, however senior.”
Rev Thompson was suspended as President in June just a week before he and vice-President Anthony Boateng were due to hand over their duties to their successors. Rev Boateng was suspended at the same time in what the Church described as a 'neutral act'.