We provide specialist support for anyone impacted by church-related abuse, as a result of their relationship with the church
We will listen. We will believe you. And we will support you in a way that feels right for you.
Safe Spaces England and Wales is a free, independent support service for people aged 18+ who has experienced church-related abuse within, or as a result of their relationship with, the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales, or the Church in Wales
We offer a confidential, personal, and compassionate space where survivors are heard, believed, and supported. Whether the abuse happened recently or many years ago, and regardless of whether the perpetrator is living or deceased, support is available.
We understand that taking the first step can be difficult. Whether you’ve already reported the incident to the police, are thinking about it, or don’t want to involve them at all – we are here for you.
You can access the England & Wales Church-related Abuse, Safe Spaces by completing our referral form using the buttons below.
Once submitted, a member of our team will contact you.
Alternatively, you can call us directly on
Our trained Support Advocates provide emotional support, practical guidance, and advocacy tailored to your needs. You do not need to have reported the abuse to the Church or the police to access our service
We can help with:
You do not have to report to the police to receive support. If you’re unsure, we can talk through your options with care and confidentiality.
Our team is here to walk alongside you, offering non-judgmental, trauma-informed support every step of the way.
Here’s what you can expect from us:
We are committed to creating a safe space where survivors of church abuse in England and Wales can find the support they need and be heard.
When you reach out to Safe Spaces, you’ll be welcomed by a compassionate team who will listen without judgment.
You can contact us via phone, email, or referral.
After an initial conversation, you may be matched with a dedicated advocate who will support you throughout your journey
You are in control of how much you share and what support you receive. Our goal is to empower you, not to pressure you.
Safe Spaces was created to provide independent, survivor-focused support.
We understand the complexities of church-related trauma and are committed to helping survivors rebuild their lives with dignity and strength
“I felt really supported and listened to. My advocate helped me navigate the safeguarding system and process my thoughts during one of the biggest traumas of my life.”
– Survivor
Church-related abuse refers to any form of harm or mistreatment that occurs within a church setting or as a result of a relationship with the church. This can involve clergy, staff, volunteers, or members of the church community.
Abuse may be:
Sexual Abuse
Unwanted sexual contact, exploitation, or harassment by someone in a position of trust or authority within the church.
Physical Abuse
Any form of physical harm, including hitting, restraint, or neglect, inflicted by church personnel or within church-run institutions.
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Manipulation, intimidation, gaslighting, or verbal cruelty that undermines a person’s sense of self-worth or mental wellbeing.
Spiritual Abuse
Misuse of religious beliefs, scripture, or authority to control, shame, or silence individuals. This may include coercion disguised as religious guidance.
Financial Abuse
Exploitation of a person’s finances, such as pressuring donations, misusing church funds, or manipulating vulnerable individuals for financial gain.
Coercive Control
A pattern of controlling behaviours that strip away a person’s autonomy, often involving isolation, threats, or surveillance under the guise of religious or moral authority.
Neglect or Institutional Abuse
Failure to protect individuals from harm within church-run settings, such as schools, care homes, or outreach programs.
Cover-ups and Mishandling of Disclosures
When church authorities ignore, dismiss, or conceal reports of abuse, causing further trauma and preventing justice.
If you’re not sure whether what happened to you is abuse – that’s okay.
You can still contact us. We’ll listen and help you make sense of it.
You do not have to go through this alone.
We’re here for you – whenever you’re ready.
Independent support for survivors of church-related abuse The Safe Spaces Survivor Advocates provide confidential, trauma-informed support to adults who have experienced abuse within the Church of England, Church in Wales, or the Catholic Church. This specialist role offers emotional support, practical guidance, and advocacy to help survivors navigate complex systems
Independent, trauma-informed support for survivors of church-related abuse Safe Spaces Advisors at First Light provide confidential, compassionate support to adults who have experienced abuse within the Church of England, Church in Wales, or the Catholic Church. Whether the harm occurred recently or many years ago, advisors offer a safe space
We provide specialist support for anyone impacted by church-related abuse, or as a result of their relationship with the church We will listen. We will believe you. And we will support you in a way that feels right for you. Safe Spaces England and Wales is a free, independent support service
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How can I get in touch with Safe Spaces?
You can contact us by phone at 0300 303 1056, by email at safespaces@firstlight.org.uk, or through our online referral form.
Is the service confidential and independent from the Church?
Yes. Safe Spaces is run by First Light, an independent charity. Your information is kept confidential and is not shared with the Church unless you give explicit consent.
What happens when I contact Safe Spaces?
You’ll be welcomed by a trained advocate who will listen without judgment. You can choose how much you share and what kind of support you want. We’ll work with you to create a support plan that meets your needs.
What types of abuse does Safe Spaces support with?
We support survivors of sexual, physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, and coercive abuse that occurred within a church setting or through a relationship with the church. This includes abuse by clergy, staff, volunteers, or church members.
Who can access the Safe Spaces service?
Anyone aged 18 or over who has experienced church-related abuse, whether recently or in the past, can access our service. You do not need to have reported the abuse to the Church or the police, and you don’t need to be a current member of a church.
What is Safe Spaces England and Wales?
Safe Spaces is a free, independent support service for anyone who has experienced church-related abuse connected to the Church of England, the Catholic Church in England and Wales, or the Church in Wales. We offer confidential emotional and practical support.
