Rev Trevor Gribben steps down over safeguarding failings in Presbyterian Church

The head of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland has resigned after internal findings revealed serious safeguarding failures between 2009 and 2022, with harm reported to individuals and the church acknowledging unknown numbers may have been affected.

By Emma McCann1 min read

The Rev Trevor Gribben has stepped down as moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland due to serious and significant failings in central safeguarding functions. These failings occurred between 2009 and 2022 during his tenure as general secretary.

The church confirmed that people had been placed at risk as a result of these failings, with some individuals reporting harm. The church acknowledged that further victims may remain unidentified.

Three congregations across both sides of the Irish border have reported individuals coming forward with concerns. The PSNI had previously restricted the church from acting until their investigation concluded.