Amicus wins payout for bullied reverend
Amicus wins payout for bullied reverend
The Church of England has paid compensation running into tens of thousands of pounds to an evangelical clergyman who said he was abandoned by his bishop over a dispute with parishioners in the Algarve expatriate retirement belt. Clergy union Amicus said the Reverend Eric Britt faced a campaign of abuse and intimidation by one of his congregations in the Algarve and rather than supporting him, his bishop withdrew his licence. Another of his congregations who wanted him to remain in post, declared its independence from the diocese as result. Supportive parishioners claimed their views were disregarded in favour of what they described as 'a significant and powerful minority' who objected to his ministry. Rachael Maskell, Amicus' national officer for clergy, said: 'This is an absolutely shocking case of bullying and discrimination but it demonstrates how vulnerable clergy are in these situations. They are being denied basic employment protection and face losing their livelihoods and their homes without the support and backing of their bishops.' She added: 'Eric's bishop failed to seek the views of the congregation and instead sided with a powerful minority, with no regard for natural justice.' Amicus said Eric Britt was the latest of a series of chaplains to have left the parish, with bullying a common factor.
Stay Updated
Want to hear about our latest news and blogs?
Sign up now to get it straight to your inbox