Over 50 children abused by monks on Caldey Island
- Children were groomed and attacked on Caldey Island from 1960 to 1992.
- Abuse was perpetrated by monks, including Father Thaddeus Kotik, who took advantage of young visitors.
- The review called for accountability and further investigation into the abuse and the Church's handling of complaints.
In the United Kingdom, more than 50 children experienced sexual abuse on Caldey Island, a location known for its picturesque scenery and religious significance, between 1960 and 1992. A recent independent review revealed that the abuse was carried out by paedophile monks, including Father Thaddeus Kotik, who groomed and attacked vulnerable children, some as young as three years old. Many of the victims were on summer holidays or associated with Catholic schools and youth groups during their visits to the island. The investigation highlighted the failure of authorities to protect the children despite complaints made by some victims to the Abbot, teachers, police, and the Catholic Church over the years. These complaints were generally ignored or met with hostility. Caldey Island has been home to a small community of Trappist monks for over a century. On this 540-acre island, which attracts up to 60,000 visitors each year, several monks and individuals posing as monks were found to have had criminal backgrounds, allowing them to infiltrate the community without proper vetting or oversight. The review conducted by Jan Pickles, a former assistant police and crime commissioner for south Wales, involved interviews with 17 survivors who bravely recounted their traumatic experiences. The report stresses the need for accountability and prompt action regarding the abuse that occurred on the island. It emphasizes the role of leaders, including Father Jan Rossey, the current Abbot of Caldey Abbey, in fostering an environment of transparency and openness to facilitate healing for victims and reduce the risk of future abuse. Survivors and advocates have called for proper apologies and further investigation into the actions of other monks suspected of involvement in sexual abuse beyond Father Thaddeus. The echoes of the past resonate strongly as the community, survivors, and society as a whole grapple with the implications of these heinous acts. The revelations raise serious questions about the safety of children in environments dominated by institutional trust and the responsibility of leadership in maintaining that trust. In reaction to the findings, many survivors have expressed profound anger and disappointment at the long-standing failure to address the abuse they suffered, urging for a commitment from the Church to uphold justice and prevent reoccurrence.