The Revd John Roberts was convicted at Liverpool Crown Court Wednesday 5th June of 5 non-current sexual offences and was sentenced on June 6th, He is currently serving a sentence for previous offences.
Following the conviction, the Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Revd Dr John Perumbalath, has issued the following statement on behalf of the Diocese of Liverpool.
“I want to thank all those who have diligently pursued this and in particular pay tribute to the victims and survivors for their courage in coming forward and bringing this matter to justice.
I, and the Diocese of Liverpool, take any safeguarding matter very seriously indeed and expect high standards from all who represent the church. Churches must be safe places for all and I hope anyone who has concerns about the past or current behaviour of individuals or the church can raise them. I can assure you we will listen and act. We are determined to support survivors and see justice carried out."
Our support for survivors
We take all reports and allegations seriously and if you, or anyone you are in contact with, are affected by this and want to talk to someone independently please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or email safespaces@victimsupport.org.ukk. There are other support services available.
You could also contact the diocesan safeguarding advisor at safeguarding@liverpool.anglican.org
For more information about safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool go to www.liverpool.anglican.org/safeguarding