At Radio Sincerity, we remain committed to giving a voice to those advocating for truth and justice. Today, we bring you an important update from Kevin O’Connell, spokesperson for the Caldey Island Survivors campaign.
Kevin has been tirelessly campaigning for stronger safeguarding measures on Caldey Island, a place that has faced serious historic abuse allegations. While recent steps have been taken by the Island’s authorities to improve safeguarding, Kevin says they fall short of what survivors and advocates have been demanding.
He highlights a critical concern: despite the monastic vow of silence and solitude, monks on Caldey Island are still allowed to use mobile phones and other digital devices. This, Kevin warns, could pose a significant risk, especially following a troubling incident last year where a monk, who is now under investigation for sending inappropriate images and historical abuse allegations, misused this technology.
Kevin stresses that the campaign has never claimed that all monks are guilty, but the potential for digital abuse remains a serious risk, not just locally, but globally. He also expresses deep disappointment that Caldey Island continues to oversee its own safeguarding processes, despite previous failings, rather than handing control to an independent body.
Today, the number of known survivors has risen to over 80, and Kevin pledges that the campaign will continue. This summer, he plans to take the message to the streets, raising public awareness until genuine, independent protections are in place for children and vulnerable adults.
Kevin, who has personally spent over £29,000 of his own savings to support safeguarding efforts, invites the public to continue supporting the cause. As he celebrates his birthday this Monday, he is encouraging those willing and able to make a small donation to their campaign.
You can find out more about Kevin and Carol’s work, and support their cause at www.caldeyislandsurvivors.org.
From all of us at Radio Sincerity, we stand with survivors and echo the call for meaningful, lasting change.
An interview with Kevin O’Connell below, press ‘Listen Now’
Please be advised: the content in this audio is deeply traumatic and may be distressing for some listeners. Listener discretion is strongly advised.