The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has initiated a statutory inquiry—the highest grade of investigation available to the Commission—into the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and all of its associated elements.

This formal investigation follows the Church's recent public disclosure regarding significant safeguarding shortcomings. The inquiry reflects the extreme gravity of the concerns that have been brought to light.

The statutory inquiry serves to formalise the process whereby the Commission can collaborate directly with the charity's trustees. The objective is to ensure that the identified issues concerning safeguarding and governance are comprehensively addressed and that necessary remedial actions are fully implemented.

Frances McCandless, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, emphasised the fundamental importance of safety: "Safeguarding is fundamental to maintaining public trust in charities. Every charity must make the safety and wellbeing of those they serve their highest priority."

In a separate statement, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed their ongoing investigative work. Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck stated: "We are aware of the announcement by the Charity Commission regarding the opening of a statutory inquiry. "As previously confirmed, the Police Service has an ongoing investigation into safeguarding concerns connected to the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. This work remains active and will not be affected by the Charity Commission's Inquiry processes.

"Safeguarding is a priority for the Police Service. We take any information suggesting risk or potential criminality extremely seriously."

ACC Beck added that the PSNI is working closely with the Charity Commission and other statutory and community safeguarding partners. He stressed that this coordinated approach guarantees that all concerns raised are fully examined, and appropriate measures are taken to address any criminality and protect those who have been harmed.

The PSNI encourages anyone who has been affected, or who possesses information that could aid the police, to come forward. Dedicated specialist officers are on standby to provide advice and support, and to help victims access the criminal justice system.

Anyone with concerns can reach the dedicated police team by email at PCIenquiry@psni.police.uk or by phoning 101.

For victims seeking support or a safe space to talk during what may be a triggering or traumatic time, the PSNI advises contacting the Victim Support NI helpline on: 028 9013 0405. They can offer immediate help and signposting to other local agencies if necessary. The helpline is available from 9am to 5pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and from 9am to 9pm on Thursdays.

The Charity Commission has stated it will not make any further comment at this time to avoid prejudicing either its own case or the active PSNI investigation.