Victims of abuse within faith-based organisations and settings are being asked to tell their stories for a government-backed oral history project.
The study stems from broader discussions with survivor groups that argued there were many victims not covered by the major inquiry into institutional abuse or potential ones into mother and baby homes and the Magdalene Laundries.
While the focus beyond the institutions has tended towards the Catholic Church, its schools and parishes, the project organisers are reaching out across all faiths and settings, said Professor Tim Chapman, who will lead the study.
This includes any groups under the direction of a religious leader or organisation, Mr Chapman added. This may include the Loyal Orders, he said.
He cited the examples of two people he met recently, one a Catholic woman victimised in her parish, the other abused by a youth leader linked to an Evangelical organisation.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, launching the project commissioned by their office, are encouraging victims and survivors to come forward and tell their stories, in absolute confidence.
“Clerical child abuse has had a devastating impact on many people here, and those affected deserve truth and justice. It is also important that they are able to tell their stories about the abuse they suffered, to be listened to and have their voices heard,” Ms O’Neill said.
“This study will offer a safe space for people to do that.”
Ms Little-Pengelly added “This research will help inform how we can best address the needs of those affected by historical clerical child abuse. I would encourage people to come forward and take part in the study.”
In addition to the oral history study, two further pieces of work are under way, one attempting to look at the historical records, both held by faith organisations and public bodies, the other reviewing safeguarding policy.
Under the terms of the project, the definition of abuse will cover sexual, physical and emotional, but also, Mr Chapman said, “spiritual abuse distorting religious teachings to justify abuse or to threaten victims to keep (it) a secret”.
Mr Chapman, currently a visiting professor at the University of Strathclyde, said it was not the project’s job to assess the credibility of a participant and decide whether they are telling the truth.
But his own experience meeting many dozens of victims has given him a good sense whether an individual is plausible or not.
“If someone comes forward with a reasonable story we will be reflecting that in our final report,” said Mr Chapman.
“Our team has significant experience in engaging with victims and survivors and will ensure that you are given a voice and enabled to relate your individual lived experience as part of a confidential process,” he said, adding access to counsellors will be provided.
If you would like to participate in the oral history study, please contact Tim Chapman at timchapman@rjteam.net or call him on 07351940491, before end of February 2025.
