Statement regarding Howard Leatherbarrow
The Diocese of Liverpool welcomes the sentencing of Mr Leatherbarrow. We would like to thank all those who brought this case. Mr Leatherbarrow will now be subject to an internal disciplinary from the Church of England which is likely to conclude quite swiftly. He has already resigned from his post at All Saints Church, Stoneycroft and no longer resides at the vicarage.
The Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Revd Dr John Perumbalath said “I welcome today’s sentence and thank all those in Merseyside Police who brought this case. I will be taking the necessary action in my power with regard to Mr Leatherbarrow starting by accepting his resignation. I take safeguarding very seriously and will ensure the diocese deal with any matters like this swiftly, fairly and decisively. I also encourage anyone who if affected by this case or has any safeguarding concerns to raise it with the appropriate authorities.”
Safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool
We take all reports and allegations seriously and if you, or anyone you are in contact with, are affected by this and want to talk to someone independently please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or email safespaces@victimsupport.org.uk. There are other support services available.
You could also contact the diocesan safeguarding advisor at safeguarding@liverpool.anglican.org
For more information about safeguarding in the Diocese of Liverpool go to liverpoolcofe.org/safeguarding-matters/
