Overview

• Archbishop Stephen Cottrell is under scrutiny for his response to past abuse allegations during his time as Bishop of Chelmsford.
• Cottrell claims he acted within legal constraints, suspending priest David Tudor only after new allegations emerged in 2019.
• The controversy follows the recent resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby over his handling of a separate abuse case, deepening the Church's crisis.
• Calls for systemic reform include proposals for independent oversight of safeguarding practices within the Church of England.
• Critics argue the Church's credibility is at risk, citing both its mishandling of abuse cases and a perceived shift away from its spiritual mission.