In June 2019, I gave a speech as the ordained Church of England chaplain at Trent College. The topic was the conflict between LGBT protesters’ views and the majority Christian teaching on relationships, sexuality, and gender identity. Despite the sensitivity of the subject, I emphasized the unacceptability of personal attacks or victimization and urged respect for differing views.
However, I was reported to the authorities under the Government Prevent anti-terrorism program and dismissed for serious misconduct. On appeal, I was reinstated with a final written warning and numerous restrictions, including pre-censorship of sermons and avoiding topics that might offend.
The school’s designated safeguarding lead also reported me to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) for “emotional maltreatment of a child,” which seemed to equate preaching to the community. Neither the officers nor LADO took action. The police officer deemed the lecture “wholly inappropriate for… society in general,” yet the House of Bishops confirmed it contained nothing outside the Church of England’s doctrine.
I was barred from teaching and later dismissed, citing Covid as a reason. I filed a claim for discrimination and unfair dismissal but lost. The judgment ruled that my sermon had gone beyond acceptable teaching. I’m appealing this decision with Christian Concern’s support.
The school head referred me to the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), which could have barred me from working in teaching or with children. Initially, both TRA and DBS acted, with TRA criticizing my implication that “LGBT+ ideologies were wrong.” Eventually, both decided to take no further action.
I’ve been exonerated by Prevent, LADO, TRA, and DBS, but my situation remains unresolved due to an ongoing investigation by the Diocese of Derby, which seems to shift its focus. They concluded that “the Church itself may also be a risk factor.” I am seeking justice regarding the Church’s safeguarding team’s actions and my bishop’s support for them.
I believe the real target in all of this is the Gospel itself, but the true victory has already been won.
