Archbishop Justin Welby is set to resign on January 6, 2024, following intense scrutiny over the Church of England's handling of abuse allegations, particularly those involving John Smyth.

His resignation comes after the Makin Review revealed that he had moral and personal responsibility for failing to report Smyth's abuse sooner, with findings indicating he could have acted as early as 2013.

Smyth, who died in 2018, was a notorious abuser who inflicted severe physical, sexual, and psychological harm on approximately 130 boys and young men over five decades.

The narrative surrounding Welby's resignation highlights systemic failures within the Church of England to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure justice for victims.

Initially, Welby resisted calls to resign, claiming ignorance of Smyth's actions prior to 2013, but later acknowledged his failure to ensure a thorough investigation.

Despite addressing various social issues publicly, critics argue that Welby neglected the immediate crisis of abuse within the church, allowing Smyth to continue his predatory behavior.

On December 6, 2024, Welby issued a heartfelt apology for the distress caused by his recent speech, particularly to survivors of abuse.

During this speech, he made a joke referencing a historical figure, which drew laughter from some peers but was criticized for being insensitive given the context of ongoing safeguarding failures.

Hartley expressed disappointment over the lack of respect for abuse victims in Welby's speech, noting that only Bishop Sarah Mullally responded appropriately.

A review confirmed that the Church of England concealed abuses committed by Smyth, raising significant concerns about accountability and governance.

Welby's resignation has sparked calls for broader accountability within the Church, as many believe other senior figures were complicit in covering up Smyth's actions.

Hartley emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in safeguarding practices, urging that the Makin Review should be a pivotal moment for reform.