The findings of the MACSAS Survey conducted throughout 2010 are shocking: victims reported that cases of sexual abuse are still being ignored and disregarded, no actions or ineffective actions are being taken against clergy and religious who remain in ministry in some cases with multiple allegations of and/or conviction for child sexual abuse. Victims are left unsupported, their allegations not determined and with no acknowledgement of or redress for the harm caused to them.
These Survey findings were placed in the context of what is known about the sexual abuse of children and adults within Churches, both in the UK and internationally. A focus was again given to sexual abuse within the Catholic Church and Church of England. Part 2 of the Report finds that the Survey findings are not aberrant results. Institutional dynamics continue to protect the power, reputation and assets of the Churches rather than ensuring that children and adults are protected from harm and that victims of abuse within Churches are responded to appropriately and with compassion.