Safeguarding at Blackburn Cathedral requires ‘urgent improvement’ according to an independent audit.

The findings of the review, which was carried out as part of a rolling programme across the Church of England, come just days after the Dean of Blackburn, Very Rev Peter Howell-Jones was suspended following a complaint.

The nature of the complaint hasn’t been made public, and a spokesperson for the Diocese of Blackburn said the 54-year-old’s suspension is a "temporary arrangement". An interim dean is being appointed. 

The review at Blackburn Cathedral describes "critical vulnerabilities that demand urgent and comprehensive attention". It goes on to say there has been "questionable decision-making, inadequate safeguarding capacity and expertise, poor communication, inconsistencies in practice, and a failure to embed robust governance, oversight and accountability".

The Bishop of Blackburn, Rt Rev Philip North, said: “The report highlights a number of urgent actions required at the Cathedral and, whilst there is some good practice, significant work is needed.

“I have met with Cathedral Chapter this week and I am pleased to hear their commitment to immediately taking action on the recommendations found in their report.

“It is clear from the audit published today there is a need for the Cathedral to act swiftly to make improvements and the Diocese continues to be happy to offer support to the Cathedral to implement in full the recommendations contained in the report.”

The audit of Blackburn Cathedral acknowledges the positive aspects of the Cathedral's approach to safeguarding, particularly in relation to good practice in the choir school and the commitment of some leaders, staff, and volunteers.

The review was carried out by the INEQE Safeguarding Group and was commissioned by The Archbishop’s Council in conjunction with the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team (NST). It took place between October 2024 and February 2025.