Former Archbishop Justin Welby admits errors in handling abuse scandal

Justin Welby, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, acknowledged that he 'got it wrong' in handling child sex abuse allegations against John Smyth, which spurred his resignation last year. In a recent BBC interview, Welby revealed that he felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of abuse cases presented to him, leading him to inadequately address the situation. An independent review indicated that Smyth, who abused over 130 boys and young men, was an open secret within the Church of England, and that Welby had failed to act on allegations as early as 2013. Victims have criticized his inaction, emphasizing that no one should be too busy to address safeguarding disclosures. The review concluded that Smyth’s abuse was covered up for decades, and that had Welby acted, Smyth might have faced justice sooner. Welby expressed sorrow for his failure, emphasizing the need for reform within the Church following the scandal.