A message from the Methodist Church Domestic Abuse Steering Group

The Methodist Church Domestic Abuse Steering Group do their utmost to highlight the issue of domestic abuse to help ensure victims and survivors receive the response and support they need and deserve. Domestic abuse continues to be an issue in our church communities. Some victims and survivors seek support and advice from their minister. Some ministers are unsure how to respond and feel ill equipped to support those who disclose that they are victims of domestic abuse. The Methodist Church has a Domestic Abuse Policy and Procedures which provides information around what constitutes domestic abuse, advice on how to respond to disclosures and information around theological understanding. In addition, a list of support organisations is provided. We also have a poster that can be displayed and stickers that can be ordered from Methodist Publishing. See here.

Ministers may be victims or survivors of domestic abuse. It can be a truly difficult place for a minister and I would urge ministers to seek support if they felt able to do so. This could be ‘anonymised’ support. Being able to tell someone can be a helpful first step. There is a Christian charity called Restored which is aimed at women who are victims of domestic abuse and provides advice and support.

Please do get in touch with me if you have any questions, suggestions or if would like to talk with me about any of the above.

Karen Allen

Regional Safeguarding Manager (North East)

Chair of the Methodist Church Domestic Abuse Steering Group