FAITH and community leaders in Bradford are joining forces to educate parents and communities on how to deal with child sexual abuse, following report findings that religious organisations were “morally failing” children who had experienced it.

Strengthening Faith Institutions (SFI) has launched the Faith Champions programme to train faith leaders on how to identify and deal with abuse within religious institutions, and on how to provide the relevant support to victims and their families.

It will also train faith leaders on how to report cases to the appropriate authorities.

The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse found there were "shocking failings" and "blatant hypocrisy" in how child sex abuse allegations were being handled in some places of worship in the UK.

It found that victim-blaming was a problem, and that some religious leaders relied on religious dogma when responding to allegations.

Imam Imtiaz Mussa, of Rashidiya Madrassa in Manningham, said religious groups have a “duty of care” in creating a “safe environment” for children.

“Muslims believe that all children have a right to personal dignity and protection from abuse”, he said.

“We all have a role to play in keeping children safe.”

Reverend Nathan Javed, of Bradford-based GBM Churches, also said: “Abuse denies a child’s worth. Rather than being a person, the child is made an object to be used for the gratification of another.

He added that “abuse is not confined to one faith or community”.

Dr Manoj Joshi DL, a prominent member of Bradford’s Hindu community, also said: “Abuse of children is abhorrent, regardless of faith or beliefs. As a Hindu, I support all action to stop child abuse.”

Dr Javed Bashir said that child abuse “thrives in an atmosphere of silence and denial”.

“Religious institutions offer children wonderful opportunities to develop spiritually and to be part of a caring community. Unfortunately, as in all organisations where adults interact with children, they can also provide opportunities for inappropriate behaviour towards children”, he added.

“If a child tells you about abuse, it's important to listen, let them know they've done the right thing by telling you, don't confront the alleged abuser and report to the appropriate authorities and the police.

“The impact of abuse can last a lifetime, and can include anxiety and depression, feelings of shame and guilt and other problems.”

SFI supports faith institutions in identifying and preventing abuse, with the use of background checks and developing comprehensive policies.

For more information, contact Dr Javed Bashir at javed@sfitogether.org.