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John Grant was today sentenced to eight and a half years' imprisonment following his conviction in July for serious sexual offences committed over many years. The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed Mr Grant on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

The London Baptist Association unreservedly condemns his actions. Our thoughts remain first and foremost with those who were abused and with others whose lives have been profoundly affected by his behaviour.

In sentencing Mr Grant, the judge highlighted the serious and sustained nature of his offending, his abuse of positions of trust, and the significant and long-term impact upon his victims. The court heard that his actions involved planning and manipulation, that his offending was not opportunistic, and that he has shown no remorse or accepted responsibility for his actions.

Of particular concern to us is the extent to which Mr Grant's involvement in churches gave him positions of trust and influence and brought him into contact with those he subsequently abused.

Mr Grant was for many years a prominent and influential figure within the life of the London Baptist Association. He served in voluntary leadership roles, including as a Trustee and Moderator of our charity, and preached widely across our family of churches. The court has now imposed an indefinite order preventing him from holding a role within a church or faith community.

Since receiving the first safeguarding referral in September 2023, the London Baptist Association has worked with victim-survivors, Muswell Hill Baptist Church, the Baptist Union of Great Britain and the Metropolitan Police. We pay tribute to the courage and perseverance of those who came forward, spoke about what had happened to them and gave evidence.

The Metropolitan Police have today renewed their appeal for anyone else who may have been abused by Mr Grant to come forward. Given his extensive involvement in churches and Christian youth work over many years, we strongly support that appeal. Anyone who believes they may have been affected should contact the Metropolitan Police, who have said that anyone coming forward will be treated with dignity, compassion and sensitivity.

Our concern for those affected does not end simply because the criminal proceedings have concluded. We remain concerned that appropriate pastoral and safeguarding support is offered to those affected by Mr Grant's actions. We will also continue to reflect carefully upon what can be learned from this case and how those lessons should inform safeguarding and accountability across our Association.

Today's sentence represents an important moment of justice and vindication for Mr Grant's victims, but it cannot undo the harm that has been caused. We continue to hold those affected in our thoughts and prayers and remain committed to doing what we can to ensure that our churches are places where people are safe, concerns are heard and abuse is never ignored.

To contact us in regards to this statement please use communications@londonbaptist.org.uk

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