Youthscape's patron, Justin Welby, has made the decision to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury. In his statement [LINK], he said that he took "personal and institutional responsibility" for the church's inaction over the abuser John Smyth, who was allowed to continue to perpetrate abuses long after they were made known – to Justin and others – in 2013.

Lambeth Palace have written to us to confirm that Justin will no longer be patron of Youthscape; a role he has held since 2017. We agree that this is the correct course of action.

Justin's resignation is the right decision. But it also represents a great loss to the national and global church. Both of these things can be true at the same time.

We believe that Justin's decision to resign shows integrity and responsible leadership. This is consistent with our many interactions with him over the last eight years. During this time we have found Justin to be a humble, kind and compassionate man who has shown much-needed leadership on the world stage. He has been a consistent advocate for the place of young people in the church, and we are in no doubt that he continues to share our total commitment to their safety, and to creating a safe culture for all.

We also share and welcome Justin's commitment to listen to and believe victims of abuse. Above all, we echo his prayer that this moment "points us back towards the love that Jesus Christ has for every one of us," because it contributes ultimately to a church in which every person is truly safe.

If you or anyone you are in contact with are affected by this situation or the publication of the Makin report and want to talk to someone independently, please call the Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or visit safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk. The Church of England National Safeguarding Team can be contacted at safeguarding@churchofengland.org