These offences were committed between 1991 and 2000.
We commend the immense courage of those who have testified, made disclosures, and raised concerns. We unreservedly apologise to all victims and survivors who have suffered abuse at the hands of Philip Aspinall. We encourage anyone who has further concerns regarding Mr Aspinall to contact the police by dialling 101 or reach out to our Diocesan Safeguarding team.
The Diocese has at all relevant times fully cooperated with the statutory authorities and has assisted with investigations. Mr Aspinall held the Bishop’s licence as a Minister in Secular Employment and in the Coventry East team, specifically at St Peter’s Hillfields.
In 1997, following a police investigation, the-then Bishop of Coventry took immediate action. Even though no criminal charges had been brought against Mr Aspinall, the Bishop revoked his licence, both as a Minister in Secular Employment and in the Coventry East Team.
The Bishop gave him permission to minister as an ordained process engineer and safety adviser through his involvement in organisations relating to ministry in secular employment but forbidding him to officiate in any acts of worship.
In 2013, on the advice of the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser and following recommendations arising from the publication of the final Chichester Report, the-then Bishop of Coventry withdrew Mr Aspinall’s permission in its entirety.
Alongside today’s news, we acknowledge that much has changed for the better regarding on-the-ground safeguarding procedures in the Church of England over the last 30 years.
Safeguarding training, awareness, and procedures are now much more thorough and robust, as we continue our commitment to ensuring that every one of our churches is a safe place for all.