We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of everyone in our communities, and have strengthened our practices over the years to ensure our institutions remain safe, supportive, and respectful places for all.
Fr Damian Howard SJ was asked to step down as Senior Chaplain at Oxford University Catholic Chaplaincy in August 2025 due to professional misconduct, following a complaint that was investigated and substantiated.
The complaint was addressed immediately when it came to our attention. A safeguarding investigation confirmed that inappropriate behaviour had occurred, which we regard as entirely unacceptable. He was asked to step down and has been out of ministry ever since.
We have commissioned an independent review by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CCSA), which is currently underway, and we are awaiting its recommendations. The matter has also been reported to the Charity Commission and to the relevant authorities.
We take our safeguarding responsibilities very seriously and will continue to act as required.
Anyone with concerns is encouraged to contact our Safeguarding Coordinator, Julie Ashby-Ellis, at safeguarding@jesuit.org.uk.
Information about the safeguarding policies and activities of the Jesuits in Britain can be found at https://www.jesuit.org.uk/safeguarding.
Additional information
The Oxford University Catholic Chaplain is appointed by the Oxford and Cambridge Education Board. The priest chaplains are members of the British Province of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits in Britain).
Fr Dominic Robinson SJ is currently acting as Senior Chaplain and Fr Frank Turner SJ has been appointed as Assistant Chaplain. Fr William Pearsall SJ continues to assist in the Chaplaincy.
