A safeguarding report into Bangor Cathedral has revealed a culture of “excessive drinking” and inappropriate sexual behaviour, after concerns were noted by the Archbishop of Wales, Most Rev Andrew John, who is also the Bishop of Bangor.
The investigation began in February 2025, and has been undertaken by safeguarding organisation Thirtyone:eight – although specific details of the “very serious and urgent” area of initial concern have not been disclosed.
Several people “linked to the cathedral” were invited to take part in the review, but Thirtyone:eight noted that their “audit did not include a fact-finding exercise where the strength of evidence was tested in relation to complaints made against specific individuals”.
The report found that “although generally people conducted themselves well” at St Deiniol’s Cathedral, there is an underlying “culture in which sexual boundaries are blurred”.
“Complaints were also made of others in the cathedral that were actively involved in inappropriate language being used in front of younger members of the choir and that this was more than 'banter', and at times was reported to cause potentially humiliation to some,” the report stated.
It also found an unhealthy approach to alcohol, with some saying that heavy drinking is encouraged at the end of services.
WhatsApp groups were reportedly used by individuals to complain about others’ behaviour.
Yet despite highlighting shortcomings, the report acknowledges several strengths in cathedral life. These include a genuine “desire to serve” amongst staff, and recent “positive changes” of incorporating the Welsh language into services.
Thirtyone:eight also highlighted that the cathedral choir has been a space of “acceptance, community and inclusion” for those with mental health issues, and noted a good “basic awareness of the importance of safeguarding policy” among staff.
Several recommendations have been made to build upon existing good practice and reshape the negative parts of cathedral life.
Among them are adopting a “clear policy” on alcohol consumption and improved lines of communication for team members.
“The Reviewers felt a great compassion for those they spoke with and had empathy with many of the challenges different individuals had faced,” the report stated.
It concluded: “The culture within Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral was found to be challenging but not broken, with many working in the background for the greater good of others.”
Archbishop Andrew John said: “These findings are hard to hear but they must be faced if we are to move forward with integrity.”
The Church in Wales told Premier that they will allow for a time of “reflection” on the report, before engaging in further comment.